Overview
Ingalls Shipbuilding, Penn State Electro-Optics Center (EOC), KITCO Fiber Optics, NSWC Dahlgren, Newport News Shipbuilding
April 2023 – April 2024
NSRP INVESTMENT: $150K
OBJECTIVE
This project’s overall goal is to evaluate the impact of new, high-density fiber optic cable configurations for U.S. Navy shipboard applications. The primary objective is to identify process and tooling impacts of using this new technology. Shipboard trials will be conducted to evaluate potential environmental impacts to new tooling. New tools and process changes/updates will be developed necessary for successful transition at the shipyard.
SUMMARY
The project scope will include the following:
- Industry Survey: A survey to identify ribbon fiber cable options and tooling required for installation will be conducted. Ribbon fiber cable, connectors, and tooling will be identified for shipboard field evaluations.
- Hardware Evaluations: Laboratory and shipboard evaluations of the new cable and connector options will be conducted. Changes to the existing installation processes will be identified and updated as needed. The impact of shipboard environmental impacts on the splicing tools and process will be evaluated.
- Analysis of Shipyard Impacts: Shipyard installation teams will provide feedback on the installation process and tooling changes.
KEY DELIVERABLES / BENEFITS
- A comprehensive final report will be developed. The report will include recommendations for shipboard applications, an analysis of qualification requirements, and technology transition.
POINT OF CONTACT: Jason Farmer | Ingalls Shipbuilding | jason.farmer@hii-ingalls.com