The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "DACS COPV Helium Pressurant Measurement" as part of their SBIR 24.2 Annual solicitation. The research objective is to develop and demonstrate an accurate and effective means of measuring the pressure in the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) Divert and Attitude Control System (DACS) Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessel (COPV). The THAAD DACS COPV is pressurized with helium during assembly, and the goal is to find a non-invasive and non-destructive method to verify the integrity of the COPV by measuring the pressure within it.
The Phase I of the project requires the proposer to have a concept for a workable prototype or design that addresses the basic capabilities of the objective. Feasibility and preliminary understanding of the technology to be applied in Phase II should be demonstrated through technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results.
In Phase II, the proposer should develop and demonstrate an accurate and effective means of measuring the pressure in the THAAD DACS COPV. The method of measurement should be non-destructive, non-invasive, and capable of being used without removing the COPV from the DACS or the DACS from the Missile Round (MR). The method should also be capable of measuring the pressure during post-production activities.
The concept has potential applications beyond helium pressurant systems and could be developed for other government programs. Relevant references include papers on non-intrusive pressure sensors and determining pressure inside thin-walled vessels using strain measurements.
The deadline for proposal submission is June 12, 2024. For more information and to submit a proposal, visit the DOD SBIR 24.2 Annual solicitation page on grants.gov.