HMMWV Variable Vehicle Cone Index (VCI) Navy SBIR FY2012.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2012.1 Topic No.: N121-002 Topic Title: HMMWV Variable Vehicle Cone Index (VCI) Proposal No.: N121-002-0385 Firm: Texas Research Institute Austin, Inc. 9063 Bee Caves Road Austin, Texas 78733-6201 Contact: Robert Brushaber Phone: (512) 263-2101 Web Site: www.tri-austin.com Abstract: The Marine Corps requires the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) to have a not-to-exceed Vehicle Cone Index (VCI) of 25. Leveraging a preliminary design study already conducted, Texas Research Institute Austin, Inc. (TRI/Austin) proposes to develop a Variable VCI System to detect the shape of the tire deformation and adjust the tire pressure to the optimal tire footprint using the Central Tire Inflation System. The proposed device is based on sensors embedded in the run-flat, with no modifications to the vehicle tire. The proposed sensing method is low cost, simple, rugged and environmentally and temperature tolerant to insure long working life without required maintenance. Relationships will be established between soil conditions, tire pressure, deflection/deformation, traction, and efficiency. Energy harvesting for system power and wireless data transmission methods will be thoroughly explored. TRI will team with AM General and Hutchison, Inc. to achieve integration of the proposed system with the HMMWV, Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS), Wheel, and Run-flat. Phase I will demonstrate the feasibility of the Variable VCI System by design and testing a demonstrator prototype. Phase II plans include mature prototype development and performance validation, with a final report incorporating a plan for transition to Phase III. Benefits: The proposed Variable VCI System will have immediate application in Military Vehicles such as the HMMWV. Additionally, the need to rapidly and safely traverse multiple soil types exists in many industries including agricultural, mining, oil exploration, and forestry. Commercial sporting and recreation endeavors such as off-road vehicle competitions could benefit from a system that varies vehicle VCI. Agricultural tractors that currently have a CTIS would also stand to benefit. These tractors lower their tire pressure when they are in the field so that they do not create ruts and compact the soil. It is envisioned that a Variable VCI System would make a vehicle more fuel efficient. The system could potentially be implemented in many types of on-road vehicles. The large commercial trucking industry would probably be one of the first to adopt such a system. Return