CREARE LLC — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: N172-120
CREARE LLC — SBIR Phase I award from Department of Defense.
- Amount
- $224,862
- Agency
- Department of Defense · Navy
- Program / Phase
- SBIR · Phase I
- Topic
- N172-120
- Solicitation
- 2017.2
- NAICS
- —
- Place of performance
- NH
- Period
- 2017-09-27 → 2019-01-18
Description
Upgrades to the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye inadvertently resulted in higher acoustic loading at its propellers blade pass frequency (BPF). This frequency overlaps with vibrational modes of the standard fixed-wing aircrew helmet, the HGU-68/P. As a combined result, E-2D pilots are experiencing exceptionally large vibrational and acoustic (noise) loading, potentially compromising aircrew performance and mission success. Targeted improvements to the helmet system are needed to mitigate this issue. Creare proposes to apply our validated approach to solving vibro-acoustic problems and modify the HGU-68/P to reduce its vibrational and acoustic response around the E-2D BPF. This improved Flight Head and Hearing Protection System (FHHPS) will result is less pilot fatigue and noise exposure, enabling longer missions with greater chance of success.