Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: To address the U.S. Army need for innovative methods of attaching applique armor packages

Description

To address the U.S. Army need for innovative methods of attaching applique armor packages to Combat Vehicle Structures, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Snap-Assisted Stackable Hardened Applique fastener system (SASHA). This proposed attachment system is based on POC"s proven, patented line of ruggedized, military field connectors, which can be integrated as part of virtually any structural member (i.e., metallic, composite-based, etc.). SASHA"s integral snap fastener allows Army personnel to quickly and easily (un)mount applique armor to/from a vehicle"s outer structure during vehicle repair or maintenance operations under all weather conditions. As a result, this proposed applique attachment system offers the capability for rapid, tool-less vehicle armor reconfiguration, including daisy-chaining, to ensure effective combat and maintenance operations, which directly addresses the PEO Combat Support & Combat Service Support requirements. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate the feasibility of four to six SASHA design variants via finite element analysis simulation and testing of fabricated proof-of-concept SASHA applique fastener prototypes. In Phase II, POC plans to integrate the system on a HUMVEE and validate two of the Phase I designs under a variety of tests including structural, environmental, and ballistic.