An Innovative Flex Hose System for the Mk 48 Torpedo

In the proposed Phase II effort, Nielsen Engineering & Research (NEAR) will continue developing the two advanced flex-hose systems that were selected from the seven investigated during the Phase I feasibility study. The resulting system will allow the successful deployment of Mk 48 torpedoes from submarines that are traveling at high-speed or operating in close proximity to the sea floor. The system will keep the communication wire from fouling the submarine's propeller and control surfaces during all phases of torpedo deployment including the wire clearance maneuver, transition, steady-state tow, and postlaunch maneuvers. NEAR will use numerical simulations and sea trial development tests to optimize both of the systems during an 18-month development program. At the conclusion of this program, NEAR and Navy personnel will select the one design that best meets all of the operational requirements. During the last 6 months of the contract, NEAR will refine the selected design, select a manufacturing/commercialization partner, and develop a cost model that includes development, production, and life cycle costs. During the proposed Phase II Option, NEAR will conduct engineering qualification tests to demonstrate the flex-hose system's compliance to a design/environmental requirements matrix provided by the Navy.