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.: N121-002-0994 Firm: GS Engineering, Inc. 47500 US Hwy 41 Houghton, Michigan 49931-9061 Contact: Chris Coxon Phone: (906) 482-1235 Web Site: gsengineering.com Abstract: The Marine Corps in support of the war fighter has identified the need to increase the mobility of the HMMWV platform to conform to the ORD. As operational theaters constantly change and require the HMMWV platform to operate in soils that have a RCI less than the current vehicle VCI the overall ability of the fighting force to operate in terrains as well as avoid common routes is minimized. With the experience GS Engineering has gained on the GMV platform coupled with additional OEM efforts GS Engineering not only has a solid understanding of the challenges of this effort, but also the solutions, products, technologies and vendors that can be compiled into a single team to successful deploy a varying VCI system. GS Engineering fully understands the importance of high fidelity analytical models as well as the actual field test data because of our experience both in successful SBIR efforts as well as our other corporate activities supporting OEM vehicle testing and development. GS Engineering's experience will be a force multiplier when combined with the system level vehicle integration experience on the HMMWV and our proven ability to develop mobility systems for both wheel and tracked vehicle platforms. Benefits: The variable VCI system that will be developed in the Phase I effort will be the culmination of the best of technology available for all systems and components. This Variable VCI system will be integrated onto the HMMWV platform in a cost effective, robust and novel fashion that will allow for the HMMWV platform to traverse low RCI soils. Through this increase in mobility the HMMWV will be able to travel additional routes and nontraditional routes therefore decrease threats upon the war fighter. This successful system will then be able to be integrated onto future Marine Corp vehicles to reduce reoccurring costs as well as support legacy vehicle improvement. This same package will be able to be commercialized to a variety of end users who require the ability to traverse soft soil conditions and operate their vehicles in environments that require additional mobility than can be currently achieved. Theses commercial industries include; off road enthusiasts, agricultural, mining / exploration, utility management, forestry and natural resource protection. Return