MHE + HULK
Heavy Utility Lift Kit
Air University, in collaboration with The Samuel Ginn College of Engineering at Auburn University, will sponsor an ACE technology maturation rapid prototyping project through MGMWERX. The Auburn Senior Design project identifies ACE employment MHE capability gaps and rapidly produces a prototype using the discipline of mechanical engineering.
Background
The United States military is shifting the way it trains and fights using ACE—a reactive or proactive scheme of maneuver used to complicate the adversary’s decision-making process via adaptive basing. Therefore, the team must be able to “pick up and leave” at a moment’s notice. ACE relies on the efficient use of aircraft cargo loading equipment and capacity. Ongoing problems exist with the size and sustainability of current MHE.
Problem
Existing MHE has a large footprint (i.e., takes up too much room on transport aircraft) and is hard to sustain (i.e., fuel, power, spare parts, etc.). Without this proper type of MHE, there is no ability to on/off-load necessary cargo (in up to 10,000 lbs per pallet) at adaptive bases.
Goals
A small logistical footprint
Effective in moving cargo
Easily sustainable
(i.e., powered by and powers available equipment—aka. multi-use) which enables greater agility, efficiency, and effectiveness of the ACE concept.
Capabilities Sought
Deliver self-sustaining MHE idea and/or prototype
Prototype provides capability to on/off load cargo/ pallets
e.g., ISU-90, 463L Pallet
Prototype must have small footprint and be multi-use
e.g., loading & power source
Solution must lift up to 12,000lbs on a 15-degree incline
aircraft ramp
Minimum viable solution load and fit into cargo aircraft
C-17 and C-130
Stretch goal solution is able to load cargo aircraft without a ramp
KC-135, KC-46, etc.