Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: MDA16-014

Description

To address the MDA need for tooling and processes for repeatable adhesive dispensing onto threaded fasteners in missile production, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Locking Adhesive DIspensing onto threaded Fasteners (LADIF) system. The proposed system including associated tooling and processes utilizes novel gripping mechanism, electronic control, and mature dispensing components to meet precise volumetric dispensing requirements while mitigating future obsolescence and delays in development. Specifically, innovations in the mechanical design and automated process allow the operator to treat different fasteners (nuts, bolts, helicoils and inserts) and dispense locking liquid compounds (LLCs) uniformly along the threaded surface. LADIF offers accurate, consistent, and repeatable adhesive dispensing, achieving the required strength for installed fastener. In Phase I, POC will characterize the LLCs for processing sensitivities, proper cure time, and the amount of LLC required to achieve optimum breakaway torque values. POC will demonstrate the feasibility of the LADIF system by developing processes for LLC application and deliver an initial prototype for reproducible application. In Phase II, POC will deliver a plan for testing, verification, and validation and perform demonstration and testing of an improved prototype as well as the design for associated tooling for LLC application. Approved for Public Release | 16-MDA-8917 (15 November 16)