Propulsors are very precisely designed and machined to optimize the conversion of engine torque to speed while minimizing adverse effects such as cavitation, vibrations, noise and fuel consumption. For warships, this a matter of maritime superiority. Consequently, Navy propellers need to be manufactured to exact design parameters, then maintained over their lifecycle to continuously meet tolerances and continue to provide maximum propulsive efficiency. To replace the physical gages in use at shipyards, ADA Technologies is proposing to develop a unique system, called MSHAPE, to inspect Navy propulsors in extreme detail and provide manufacturers and machinists with clear directions to build or repair these critical components. The proposed technology leverages a current Phase II effort combining metrology-grade inspection and automation. MSHAPE will result in exceptional inspection accuracy of propellers, detailed data reporting and fast turnaround. The systems output will be used to create an extraordinarily fine 3-D model of the propulsor that will be compared to its theoretical design. In Phase I, ADA will build a proof-of-concept MSHAPE prototype and demonstrate its accuracy on a standard object and a small-scale marine propeller. Project partners include Lockheed Martin and small businesses Advanced Coordinate Technology (metrology company) and Tacuna Systems (custom electronics).
