SBIR 95-1 SOLICITATION
PROJECT SUMMARY
Proposal Number:
Project Title:
SMART UMBILICAL MATING SYSTEM
Technical Abstract:
Some of the most sophisticated and highly profiled umbilical
connection systems in the world are located at the Kennedy
Space Center. These umbilical are used to provide cryogenic
and hypergolic fuels, inert gases, power and communications
to the space shuttle orbiter and its payloads. Many of
these umbilical are designed to be released at or slightly
before lift-off. During aborted launches, these umbilical
have been released and require reattachment. To accomplish
this task, high-crew personnel must be sent out to reconnect
the umbilical plates. This us ab extremely hazardous
operation to the crew, the spacecraft and the personnel
performing the task. Approximately six years ago, NASA
investigated automated remote umbilical mating systems for
this purpose. The original system was only partially
operational because of problems caused by tracking, mating,
demating among others. MSI proposes to utilize the lessons
learned from these tasks and integrate recently developed
sensor technology to develop a highly reliable, safe and
smart quick-disconnect (QD) components. The QD's will
incorporate sensors to monitor various parameter such as
temperature, pressure, current and mechanical position.
Understanding the limitations of making shuttle
modifications, this technology is developed to have minimal
or no impact to existing hardware.
Potential Commercial Applications:
The largest commerical application is for automated fueling
of automobiles and trucks. This is especially true for
future automobiles which will use nontraditional fuels, such
as, hydrogen or liquefied petroleum. Other applications
include tje fueling of commerical and military aircraft.
Automated, mobile refueling systems are envisioned for
battle field operations to ensure the safety of personnel
and equipment.
Name and Address of Offeror:
Merritt Systems, Inc.
2425 North Courtenay Parkway, Suite #5
Merritt Island, FL 32953
Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) &
Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR) Programs
Electronic Management System (EMS)
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
The SBIR/STTR EMS site is maintained by Steve
Hu, Hughes STX.
For comments and questions, contact
webmaster@sbir.hq.nasa.gov.
Updated: Feb. 7, 1996