Development of an Extremely Compact and Lightweight Sleeping Bag Navy SBIR FY2006.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2006.2 Topic No.: N06-107 Topic Title: Development of an Extremely Compact and Lightweight Sleeping Bag Proposal No.: N062-107-0023 Firm: S. D. Miller and Associates 216 West Cherry Ave, Building 2 Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 Contact: Stephen Miller Phone: (928) 779-2056 Abstract: To reduce Warfighter fatigue, and improve readiness, the USMC needs a better sleeping bag. The current Modular Sleep System (MSS) weighs 10.3 lbs, fills 1780 cubic inches when stored, and has enough insulation for 4-hours rest at -7 F, based on the heat loss model developed at Kansas State University. Marines are frequently in colder, wetter environments, and their backpacks can be as much as 46 pounds overweight. Marines need an Improved Sleep System (ISS) that is lighter, less bulky and safe for use to -40 F. Surpassing the USMC's targets for a 30% improvement, S. D. Miller and Associates (SDMA) proposes to develop the ISS that provides 50% more insulation, for use to -40 F, weighs 7.2 lbs and compresses to 648 cubic inches. Because synthetic fibers are not compressible enough, and down/feathers are not reliable in damp conditions, SDMA will adapt a proven aerospace insulation to meet the ISS requirement. During Phase I and the Phase I Option, SDMA will define Warfighter needs, survey materials, and test fabric/insulation ensembles. An ISS design will be developed and optimized using computer analyses of sleeping bag sections, collaboration with sleeping bag manufacturers, heated manikin measurements at KSU, and user evaluations. Benefits: SDMA's research is a radical departure from conventional textile insulations. Dramatic reductions in weight and stored bulk will be attractive to military customers, industrial users that require cold weather clothing, and recreational users that want a lighter, more compact back pack. Weight/bulk reductions will also improve readiness and response for emergency and disaster relief situations. Previous research suggests this new class of insulations will be dramatically more effective in damp conditions, and consumers that appreciate that advantage will prefer these materials. Return