Adjustable Shock Absorber for Oversized Application
ID: N241-009Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Adjustable Shock Absorber for Oversized Application

Agency

Department of DefenseN/A

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTHYear: 2024
Timeline
  1. 1
    Release Nov 29, 2023 12:00 AM
  2. 2
    Open Jan 3, 2024 12:00 AM
  3. 3
    Next Submission Due Feb 21, 2024 12:00 AM
  4. 4
    Close Feb 21, 2024 12:00 AM
Description

The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for an adjustable shock absorber for oversized applications. The Navy branch is specifically interested in developing a large shock absorber that can be tuned prior to compression to absorb energy and shock that varies in magnitude. The shock absorber should be larger in size than typical ones and capable of being adjusted/programmed to optimize resistance given the expected initial conditions. The technology should convert kinetic energy to another form, such as heat or electricity, that can be safely released or dumped. The shock absorber should meet military standards for vibration, shock, electromagnetic interference, and environmental factors. It should also be operable in industrial and marine environments. The shock absorber should fit within a compressed space of 23 in. by 23 in. by 109 in. and have a stroke no greater than 9 ft. The weight, including supports, should not exceed 10,500 lb. The shock absorber should be adjustable to provide a force from 0 lbf to 250,000 lbf and be controllable/programmable to provide a force from 0 lb. to 35,000 lb. It should have a minimum of 3 settings and be capable of adjusting its setting within 5 seconds. The shock absorber should operate within a temperature range of -13°F to 149°F and withstand a storage temperature range of -27°F to 160°F. It should be capable of supporting a cyclic operation of at least 500,000 cycles within a 25-year life without failure in fatigue. The shock absorber should also be capable of monitoring and providing real-time information on stroke position and system conditions. The project will be conducted in three phases: Phase I involves designing and developing a concept, Phase II involves building a prototype, and Phase III involves fabricating a full-scale working adjustable shock absorber. The technology has potential applications in various mechanical systems, including hydraulic and pneumatic control systems.

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