Treatments for Crack Propagation in Metal Aircraft Parts
ID: AF242-D020Type: Phase II
Overview

Topic

Treatments for Crack Propagation in Metal Aircraft Parts

Agency

Agency: DODBranch: USAF

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: Phase II
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, specifically the United States Air Force, is seeking innovative solutions for in-place repair of structural components with stress-induced cracks in metal aircraft parts through its SBIR program. The objective is to develop and demonstrate portable ground support equipment capable of performing rapid repairs without removing components from the aircraft, thereby enhancing aircraft availability and reducing depot visits. This technology is crucial for extending the service life of aircraft parts, particularly aluminum alloys and steel, while maintaining their mechanical properties and dimensional tolerances. The solicitation is currently closed, with applications due by June 12, 2024, and further details can be found at the provided source link.

    Files
    Title
    Posted
    Similar Opportunities
    Repair Solution for Optically Transparent Canopies and Windscreens -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Navy, is seeking innovative solutions through the SBIR program to develop a repair solution for optically transparent canopies and windscreens, addressing issues such as scratches and pits that compromise optical clarity and structural integrity. The objective is to create a repair material or process that can be executed on aircraft by maintenance personnel, significantly reducing aircraft downtime compared to traditional replacement methods. This initiative is crucial for maintaining the operational readiness of military aircraft, particularly for models like the H-53 and F/A-18, while also having potential applications in commercial aviation. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on April 23, 2025, with proposals due by May 21, 2025, and can find more information at the provided source link.
    Utilizing Oxide Dispersion Strengthening (ODS) to Elevate Mechanical Properties of Current and Next Gen Metallic Alloys -
    DOD
    The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is seeking proposals for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program focused on utilizing Oxide Dispersion Strengthening (ODS) to enhance the mechanical properties of current and next-generation metallic alloys. The primary objective is to develop low-cost materials that exhibit high strength at elevated temperatures, excellent oxidation resistance, and good ductility, with a particular interest in oxide dispersion strengthened refractory alloys and potentially advanced nickel superalloys. This initiative is critical for applications in hypersonics and space technology, aiming to improve material performance for components such as engine ducts. Proposals are due by May 21, 2025, and interested parties can find more information and submit their applications through the official SBIR website at https://www.sbir.gov/topics/11919.
    F-35 Scuff Sanding Test and Demonstration -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the United States Air Force, is seeking innovative solutions for the F-35 Scuff Sanding Test and Demonstration under the SBIR program. The objective is to develop a robotic system capable of automating the scuff sanding process for the F-35 aircraft, aiming to enhance efficiency, reduce labor intensity, and minimize workplace injuries associated with manual sanding. This initiative is critical as it addresses the laborious nature of current sanding practices, which have led to high employee turnover and safety concerns. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is open from April 2, 2025, to May 21, 2025, with further details available at the provided source link, and must comply with ITAR regulations regarding foreign nationals.
    Secondary Interlayer and Fiber/Matrix Bonding for Optimized Continuous Fiber Printing -
    DOD
    The U.S. Air Force is seeking innovative solutions for the development of new thermoplastic resin chemistries and processing techniques aimed at enhancing interlaminar adhesion and fiber/matrix bonding in Continuous Fiber Additive Manufacturing (CFAM) processes. The objective is to address significant material challenges that currently limit the adoption of CFAM technology, particularly for the production of Autonomous Collaborative Platform (ACP) unmanned aircraft, by improving the performance of materials used in these manufacturing processes. This opportunity is part of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, with proposals due by May 21, 2025, and aims to validate solutions that can achieve at least 80% of the properties of aerospace-grade polymer matrix composites. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the official SBIR website.
    Advanced Fretting Fatigue Life Prediction Method for Naval Aerospace Applications -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Navy, is seeking innovative solutions to advance the understanding and mitigation of fretting fatigue damage in naval aerospace applications. The primary objective is to develop advanced modeling and simulation techniques, as well as innovative mitigation strategies, to improve the durability and reliability of critical components subjected to complex operational conditions. Fretting fatigue poses significant risks in various applications, including bolted joints and engine mounts, making this research vital for enhancing the performance and longevity of aerospace systems. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on April 23, 2025, with a closing date of May 21, 2025, and can find more information at the provided source link.
    Advanced Prediction of Polymer Performance -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the United States Air Force, is seeking proposals for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program focused on the "Advanced Prediction of Polymer Performance." The objective is to develop validated data and tools for predicting the fatigue performance of parts printed from Air Force-approved polymers, alongside providing training for program office engineers on these tools and their limitations. This initiative is crucial for enhancing the reliability and efficiency of additive manufacturing processes, particularly for materials like ULTEM 9085 and Antero 800NA. Proposals are due by May 21, 2025, with the opportunity to transition technologies developed in Phase II for broader government and civilian applications. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the official SBIR website.
    A Hybrid Digital Twin Framework for Modeling Machine Process Parameters for Automated Fiber Placement-based Manufacturing of Composite Structures -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Navy, is seeking innovative solutions through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program to develop a hybrid digital twin framework aimed at enhancing the automated fiber placement (AFP) process for manufacturing composite structures. The primary objective is to create a physics-based and AI-driven digital twin system that improves manufacturing rates and quality while reducing the need for manual intervention in defect management. This initiative is critical for the aerospace industry, where efficient and high-quality composite manufacturing is essential for producing low-cost airframes. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on April 23, 2025, with applications due by May 21, 2025, and further details can be found at the provided source link.
    Smart Electronic System Visualization to Support Depot Sustainment of USAF Systems -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the United States Air Force (USAF), is seeking innovative solutions through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program to develop a Smart Electronic System Visualization tool aimed at enhancing depot sustainment of USAF systems. The primary objective is to create an electrical system digital twin that enables immediate circuit rendering, facilitating dynamic navigation, inspection, documentation, and debugging of electrical systems. This technology is crucial for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of electronic maintenance operations, allowing for real-time data visualization and interaction with complex schematics. Interested parties should note that the opportunity is open for submissions until May 21, 2025, with further details available at the provided source link: https://www.sbir.gov/topics/11915.
    Novel High Performance and Multifunctional Sandwich Composite Structures -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Navy, is seeking innovative solutions for the development of advanced sandwich composite structures through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The primary objective is to create high-performance sandwich composites with enhanced bond strength and multifunctionality, utilizing performance-driven design customization and advanced manufacturing techniques. These composite structures are crucial for applications in aerospace and marine engineering, where lightweight and high-strength materials are essential for improved performance and safety. Interested parties should prepare to submit proposals by May 21, 2025, with the opportunity being released on April 23, 2025. For more information, please visit the official SBIR website at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Omni directional aircraft mover for F-16 -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the United States Air Force, is seeking innovative solutions for the development of an omni-directional aircraft mover designed for the F-16 aircraft. The objective is to create a system that allows for the movement of aircraft in all directions, facilitating operations in maintenance and repair environments, particularly during corrosion control activities, while reducing the need for extensive tow lanes. This technology aims to enhance the accuracy of aircraft placement for automated tooling processes, addressing limitations of traditional aircraft tugs. The solicitation is currently open, with proposals due by May 21, 2025, and further details can be found at the provided source link. Interested parties are encouraged to review the requirements and submit their applications accordingly.