Anti-Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) Technologies Navy SBIR FY2004.2 - Quick Response Topics Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2004.2 Topic No.: N04-902 Topic Title: Anti-Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) Technologies Proposal No.: N042-902-0150 Firm: Solidica, Incorporated 3941 Research Park Drive Suite C Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108 Contact: Dawn White Phone: (734) 222-4680 Web Site: www.solidica.com Abstract: This Phase I SBIR will show that 1) a novel metal lamination process, Ultrasonic Consolidation (UC), provides anisotropic, inhomogeneous armor with capability to disrupt the axial symmetry of armor piercing munitions, 2) that UC can support in-field retrofit of armor to existing vehicles, and 3) that UC provides automated counterfire feasibility. Ultrasonic Consolidation is a solid state, additive manufacturing process that produces fully dense metal laminates. UC features that make it a high potential technology for in theater retrofitable armor include 1. Energy absorption through anisotropic, laminar structures 2. Ability to incorporate multiple monolithic and composite materials for improved ballistic performance 3. Ability to insert single or multiple ceramic layers 4. Can be applied to existing vehicles and structures 5. Sensors such as optical fibers, antennas etc., can be embedded in armor to determine the extent and location of damage 6. It may be possible to produce reactive armor with multiple repeating capability using this technique due to the low temperature, solid state manufacturing process Background on the technical aspects of the UC process is provided to illustrate the broad significance and potential for this process in armor applications, followed by the Technical Objectives and Phase I Work Plan. Benefits: This Phase I SBIR will demonstrate an advanced armor technology with superior ballistic performance, and the capability to enable automated counterfire, in a system that allows field retrofit of existing vehicles. Commercial applications include manufacturing of machinery and services to apply armor to vehicles. In addition, the materials processing technology developed here will have application to a wide variety of commercial rapid prototyping and tooling applications, and to the fabrication of advanced materials and structures in applications that include aerospace structural components, automotive and sporting goods. Return