Collaboration for Innovative Research on Aircraft Structure (CIRAS)
ID: 333471Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

Air Force -- Research Lab (DOD-AFRL)

Eligible Applicants

Unrestricted

Funding Category

Science and Technology and other Research and Development

Funding Instrument

Procurement Contract

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes

Original Source

https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/333471
Timeline
    Description

    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is soliciting proposals for the "Collaboration for Innovative Research on Aircraft Structure (CIRAS)" initiative, aimed at advancing research in aircraft structural design, analysis, and experimentation. The focus areas include innovative structural concepts for weight reduction and performance enhancement, realistic load and environmental spectra generation, and advanced structural design and analysis methods. This opportunity is critical for enhancing aerospace technologies and ensuring the development of robust aircraft structures, with an estimated total program funding of $6 million available. Interested applicants can reach out to Jodonna Alvarez at jodonna.alvarez@us.af.mil or by phone at 937-713-9966, with proposals due by May 11, 2026.

    Point(s) of Contact
    jodonna.alvarez@us.af.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    FA8650-21-S-2205-Atch1.pdf
    The BAA-RQKPC-2205 Statement of Objectives outlines a research initiative by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to enhance the qualification process for additively manufactured (AM) airframe structures. The focus is on resolving challenges related to part qualification, such as the stability of fabrication processes and the predictability of mechanical properties. The research seeks to develop design practices that reduce dependence on individual part qualification by emphasizing features like wall thickness and material properties. Initial efforts will target limited-life aircraft, with future phases expanding to aircraft with longer life spans. AFRL is offering funding of up to $150,000 per year for two years to support this research. Moreover, the document underscores the importance of Operations Security (OPSEC) in safeguarding sensitive technologies against potential threats during the research phase. Compliance with security requirements is mandatory for all involved parties. The initiative aims to foster innovative approaches to AM technology in alignment with national interests and defense needs.
    FA8650-21-S-2205-Call0001.pdf
    The Air Force Research Laboratory has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) titled "Collaborations for Innovative Research on Aerospace Structure" (FA8650-21-S-2205), specifically initiating Call 0001 for "Qualifying Additively Manufactured Airframe Structure" (QAMAS). This Call seeks to stimulate innovative research focused on additive manufacturing (AM) technologies. The goals include developing mechanical properties and design allowables for AM parts, specifically targeting limited-life aircraft (thousands of hours of use). Key focus areas include the analysis of part discontinuities, anisotropy of strength and fatigue properties, and residual stresses. Researchers are invited to submit white papers outlining their proposed technical approaches and a rough order of magnitude (ROM) cost estimate. The process follows a two-step format, with the initial phase assessing white papers to determine alignment with the Air Force's needs. Selected submissions will then be invited to put forth detailed technical and cost proposals. White papers are limited to five pages and must adhere to specific formatting guidelines. The total budget for this initiative is approximately $300,000, with a performance timeline of 24 months for completion. Due to COVID-19 protocols, submissions must be sent electronically to designated contacts by the specified deadline. This announcement exemplifies the federal government's commitment to advancing aerospace technologies through collaborative research partnerships.
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