Approach to Increase Craft Speed by Use of the Inflatable Articulated Ship Tie (INFAST) Navy SBIR FY2005.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2005.1 Topic No.: N05-048 Topic Title: Approach to Increase Craft Speed by Use of the Inflatable Articulated Ship Tie (INFAST) Proposal No.: N051-048-0385 Firm: UTD Incorporated 8350 Alban Road Suite 700 Springfield, Virginia 22150 Contact: Ed Sonifrank Phone: (703) 440-8834 Web Site: www.UTDinc.com Abstract: The goal of this proposal is to develop an articulated connection system that allows conventional landing craft/cargo vessels, such as the Landing Craft Utility (LCU) 1600 Class, to be linked in a train for increased cargo transit speed. The proposed method allows the connection device to link craft together allowing each craft freedom of movement in the three rotational axes of pitch, roll, and yaw. The connection system allows transfer of compressive and tension forces between craft without the use of large heavy mechanical fasteners. By use of an innovative system, it couples a connection and a fairing into one system, merging all the craft into a single hull form. This method of connection acts as a compression and tension member, flexible joint, and a fairing shaped to mitigate bow waves generated by follow craft in the train. Based on theoretical formulas and expected reduction of residual forces, it is anticipated that four connected craft will accomplish the desired 30% increase in speed. Benefits: Our commercialization strategy will initially focus on providing connectors for the Navy's existing fleet of approximately thirty LCU-1600 class vessels through strategic alliances and partnerships established with the suppliers during Phase II development. Cost to provide the necessary materials and services to fabricate and install units for the LCU-1600 class fleet is estimated at $7,250,000. Based on development for the initial Navy application, further opportunities to apply the concept may evolve with either the Army fleet of LCU-2000 class craft or for the next generation of displacement landing craft. In the civilian sector, approximately 30,000 dry cargo, tank, and other utility barges currently serve America's inland waterway network. A substantial civilian commercialization opportunity may exist if even 10 percent of this fleet are candidates for an extension of this technology. Return