MWMSS Expeditionary Additive Manufacturing: Metallic Based Systems

Geofabrica proposes to create a prototype metal additive manufacturing (AM) system for testing in anticipation of transitioning the technology as a potential upgrade to the U.S. Army's MWMSS.   The SBIR team will build on Phase I work done as part Grid Logic to create a robust platform that can accommodate many metal AM methods over time. The first AM capability will be based on wire arc additive manufacturing technology. The new AM system will be capable of fabricating and repairing parts in expeditionary conditions as part of the MWMSS equipment and tool set.  It will be possible to rapidly assemble and disassembly the metal AM system for transportation in MWMSS storage. It will also be possible to operate the system outside the MWMSS tactical shelter. The project will include requirements confirmation, engineering, building and testing the new metal AM capability. System performance, through fabrication and evaluation of test specimens, will be done by the SBIR team. Geofabrica will provide support to the Army during Limited User Experience (LUE) evaluation. After LUE evaluation, the team will improve the AM system design in preparation qualification.  Geofabrica will submit development plans to the Program Office in support of a potential Phase III effort in which the company will continue to provide services for technical tasks leading to transition.  Geofabrica will commercialize the technology for dual-use applications.