SEA CON proposes a Fleet requirements driven modification and re-design project for submarine outboard connectors. Fleet failure modes are reviewed in early taksing to establish the priority and direction of the Phase I engineering design effort. Methods are propoesed to integrate historical Fleet connector failure mode information and current Fleet data into a summary of outboard connector problems. This information is analysed and design priorities established for the project. Modifications to connectors are suggested using grommets to eliminate cable hosing, and an extended GRE insert and overmold are suggested as possible re-design concepts. The commercialization strategy is directed at the Navy in the early stages, then branches to offshore, ROV, DSRV, and water utility markets.
