Remote Troubleshooting Using a Proven Process Navy SBIR FY2010.3 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2010.3 Topic No.: N103-218 Topic Title: Remote Troubleshooting Using a Proven Process Proposal No.: N103-218-0432 Firm: Mechanical Solutions, Inc. 11 Apollo Drive Whippany, New Jersey 07981-1423 Contact: Eric Olson Phone: (973) 326-9920 Web Site: www.mechsol.com Abstract: Mechanical Solutions, Inc. (MSI) has successfully utilized remote troubleshooting by resolving a vibration and exhaust hood cracking problem on a 660MW steam turbine generator. The crux of the problem is the paucity of qualified troubleshooters, and the time wasted by qualified problem solvers traveling great distances to support critical equipment issues. MSI staff avoided traveling 12,000 miles (each way) to a region of the world that was threatened by the bird flu epidemic and insurgents. Similarly, shore side subject matter experts (SMEs) and knowledgeable shipyard engineers must more efficiently resolve problems aboard the United State's aircraft carriers. There is neither the time nor money to waste traveling and supporting a single issue, when a shore side engineer or an engineering team can efficiently take on more problems if provided with proven remote troubleshooting tool kits. The proposed remote troubleshooting kit addresses electro-machinery systems aboard a carrier that include steam turbines, generators, boiler feed pumps, condensate pumps, circulating water pumps, refrigeration/HVAC systems, evaporators, electric motors, switch gear, and sewage plants. While the proposed troubleshooting process is proven, the concept of applying it remotely is innovative, with a potentially high payoff. Benefits: The requirements outlined in topic N103-218 create an opportunity to address a problem that exists in Navy, as well as industry. Both groups lack knowledgeable and experienced electro-mechanical equipment problem solvers. Remote capability using a proven troubleshooting process that can be taught will a) allow existing personnel to efficiently address more problems, and b) provide a methodology so that new engineers can more rapidly gain needed experience. By focusing on the needs of an aircraft carrier, a broad range of problems will be addressed that impact other DOD groups and industrial applications such as nuclear and fossil power plants, water and waste water treatment facilities, refineries, and off-shore oil production platforms. About one-half of MSI's revenue and much of its reputation is based on providing services to resolve the most difficult machinery problems to manufacturers, plant operators, and government. Marketing and technically supporting the developed remote troubleshooting kits will augment MSI's existing troubleshooting business. Return