Performance and Cost Optimization of an Advanced Lift Fan Blade for Hovercraft Navy SBIR FY2015.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2015.2 Topic No.: N152-100 Topic Title: Performance and Cost Optimization of an Advanced Lift Fan Blade for Hovercraft Proposal No.: N152-100-0382 Firm: Creare LLC 16 Great Hollow Road Hanover, New Hampshire 3755 Contact: Benjamin Cameron Phone: (603) 643-3800 Web Site: http://www.creare.com Abstract: Lift fan efficiency, noise, and life cycle cost all impact mission capabilities of the Navy�s next-generation landing hovercraft, the Ship-to-Shore Connector (SSC). Improving efficiency will increase the SSC�s endurance and range, reduced noise will improve environmental conditions for personnel on the craft, and minimizing life cycle cost will reduce the overall operational expenses for the SSC program. We propose to develop a high-efficiency, advanced lift fan design using high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and structural finite element analysis (FEA) models to maximize efficiency and minimize structural and aeroacoustic noise. We will implement a parametric study to rapidly identify leading designs. We have also teamed with an industry-leading Naval Systems manufacturing partner to evaluate the feasibility and cost of fabricating advanced 3-D blade geometries. In Phase I, we will demonstrate the improved performance and cost effectiveness of our design through numerical modeling, manufacturing studies, and fabrication of prototype hardware. We will use the results to develop a manufacturing plan and a detailed design including the capability to remove and replace individual blades with the impeller installed on the craft. Benefits: Our advanced lift fan design and low-cost manufacturing approach improves mission capabilities and reduces operational cost of the SSC. The improved efficiency extends the operational range of the SSC, and the reduced noise improves the working environment for shipboard personnel. The design approach to be developed is directly applicable to improving designs of hovercraft lift fans in the private sector and also has applications for the development of low-noise and high-efficiency industrial blowers. Return