Assessment and Concept Development of ZeroG and ZeroG Mag-Mount Systems for Hull Applications at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard (PSNSY)
NCMS Project #: 140906
Problem: The problem is that at Naval Shipyards and commercial businesses, much of the work is accomplished by “touch labor” artisans performing physically demanding and fatiguing operations: lifting, manipulating, and using heavy hand tools in awkward positions, with repetitive motions for lengthy durations.
Benefit: By eliminating the strain and fatigue associated with repetitive tasks and making tools effectively weightless, ZeroG technology can significantly boost productivity, reduce industry costs, and improve quality of goods and workplace satisfaction.
Solution/Approach: ZeroG does not require new tooling or new processes but makes the use of existing tools and processes safer and much more effective. The ZeroG mechanical arm allows tools, parts and other payloads to be maneuvered as it weightlessly, but with complete freedom of motion, provides its users with a level of performance that is unmatched by crane-based systems, torque arms and tool balancers. NAVSEA 04 will procure one ZeroG4 system from Equipois with supporting gimbals and ZeroG-Mag-Mount components to support concept development and to conduct initial testing at PSNSY.
Impact on Warfighter:
- Decreased injuries and medical costs
- Improved readiness
- Improved safety
- Increased productivity
DOD Participation:
- NAVSEA
Industry Participation:
- Equipois
- Maglogix
- NCMS
Benefit Area(s):
- Cost savings
- Repair turn-around time
- Safety
- Maintenance management improvement
Focus Area:
- Additive/advanced manufacturing