LOC PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS, INC. — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: A11-052

Description

Heavy add-on-armor installed on the Bradley Fighting Vehicle has degraded the vehicles mobility performance. Vehicle acceleration has declined to 80% of its original capability. To cost effectively modernize the mobility system, the final drive torque capacity must be significantly increased to maintain the current vehicle interfaces and packaging space. Loc Performance Products, Inc. (Loc) has developed its MaxTorQD technology in Phase I research that doubles torque capacity, improves efficiency, and provides a driveline Quick Disconnect solution that simplifies towing and maintenance operations. Technical feasibility was established during Phase I research using a combination of industry standard analysis methods and a proof of concept Quick Disconnect Demonstrator. During Phase II, Loc proposes to test promising gear material, surface finish, and coating technologies identified in Phase I to physically quantify torque capacity and efficiency improvements. Loc will then apply knowledge gained through testing and further maturation of its Quick Disconnect technology to develop one vehicle set of the Bradley Modernization Final Drive for delivery at the end of Phase II. This drive will provide a Quick Disconnect function and contain sufficient torque capacity to meet the long term needs of both the Bradley and Paladin Integration Management (PIM) vehicle platforms.