Bio-Inspired Ultra-Tough Lightweight Composite Launch Tube

The proposed 12-month project (Phase I, ASO A241-045) with Phase I Base (6 months) and Phase I Option (6 month) aims at delivering an innovative conceptual design of a lightweight, cost-effective, durable and shock resistant composite Launch Tube (LT) for the 6.75-inch diameter Compact Rapid Attack Weapon (CRAW) Launcher Assemblies (LA) following the propulsion performance, weight and integration requirements presented in the ASO A241-045. The innovative composite LT will target a weight reduction of 175 lbm compared to the current stainless-steel solution. A Key innovation to meet the stringent propulsion performance requirements while achieving the targeted weight reduction is the use of monolithic and/or hybrid Helicoid™ composites in the design. Helicoid™ is an innovative bio-mimetic composite technology to enhance blast resistance of conventional laminated composites (up to 97% improvement in energy absorption measured against conventional Carbon-fiber composites with 20%-40% weight reduction potential). Helicoid Industries Inc (HEL) will partner with The University of Rhode Island (URI). In the Phase I Base, HEL will define the LT requirements, create conceptual design(s), develop and execute numerical finite element and analytical models to explore the design space and identify optimal solutions. URI will design, manufacture, and test coupon-level samples to demonstrate the benefit of the selected design(s) in enhancing performance and durability under blast conditions. Finally, HEL will demonstrate the CRAW system integration of the selected concept(s). In Phase I Option, HEL and URI will finalize the initial design specifications, demonstrate durability and reuse, and identify the required capabilities to prototype a full-scale composite LT in Phase II. The final deliverable will consist of a roboust conceptual design of the composite LT to be prototyped and tested at full scale in Phase II which will also validate the integration with the CRAW LA interfaces. URI’s long-lasting expertise in modelling and experimental validation of blast performance of composite structures for marine and Navy-related applications combined with the strong composite engineering expertise of HEL and HEL’s patented Helicoid™ impact-resistant composite technology will create the perfect synergy to maximize project outcomes and successfully achieve the project goal. Constant interaction between HEL and URI will be maintained during the project via weekly meetings and a total of two in-person visits of the PI to URI. The total budget requested for the project is $239,836.16. Time and budget allocated to URI is no larger than one-third of the total budget requested for direct and indirect costs. Experimental activities will be conducted at URI while numerical activities will make use of software (Abaqus) and computational resources provided by both HEL and URI. Materials, supplies and equipment will be all sourced in the US at project start.