Surface Ship Fat Line Towed Array Cut-Resistant Vibration Isolation Module (VIM) Hose Navy SBIR FY2018.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2018.1 Topic No.: N181-034 Topic Title: Surface Ship Fat Line Towed Array Cut-Resistant Vibration Isolation Module (VIM) Hose Proposal No.: N181-034-0421 Firm: METSS Corporation 300 Westdale Avenue Westerville, Ohio 43082 Contact: Kenneth Heater Phone: (614) 797-2200 Web Site: http://www.metss.com Abstract: The objective of the Topic N181-034 is to develop concepts for a cut-resistant vibration isolation module (VIM) hose, which plays an essential role maintaining the performance of the TB-37 Towed Array System. VIMs act as a shock absorber that attenuates effects of mechanical noise caused by ship motion and the tow cable�?Ts strum. The proposed effort will use a comprehensive materials-based approach to toughen the VIM�?Ts outer jacket against widely-used high-tension fishing longlines, with 1000's of fish hooks, which can span more than 10 kilometers in length. The proposed approach will leverage the latest developments in fabric reinforced rubbers and advanced additives to develop a wear and cut-resistant VIM jacket materials for improved service like performance. Material selection and testing will be optimized using statistical Design of Experiments. Experimental results will be validated using computer simulation modeling. A major objective of the proposed approach is to preserve the current manufacturing methods and supply base so the SBIR technology can be transitioned into the fleet in a time and cost-efficient manner. Benefits: The first step is to incorporate an innovative, cut-resistant VIM hose that can withstand a 5-year lifespan in saltwater into the TB-37 towed array. While the TB-37 is associated with littoral combat ships, cruisers, and destroyers, there are other towed array systems such as the TB-34 which is vital to Virginia-class submarine operations. Advancements made to one style VIM is anticipated to pass along benefits to others. In terms of non-military, commercial applications, vibration isolation modules (VIMs) constitute a non-traditional market entry, downstream niche. Apart from naval ships, submarines, future unmanned undersea vehicles and unmanned surface vehicles, the customer base is likely limited to commercial towed array systems used for marine mammal vocal detection (whales, dolphins, and porpoises �?" studying their sound frequencies and patterns), seismic surveys, offshore drilling operations, and general undersea research. In support of this effort, METSS will actively seek opportunities to discuss the work being performed under the SBIR program and identify other uses for the technologies developed in conjunction with the SBIR program. Return