DON26BZ01-NV015 TITLE: Virtual Reality Model Walkthrough
OUSW (R&E) CRITICAL TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Applied Artificial Intelligence (AAI)
COMPONENT TECHNOLOGY PRIORITY AREA(S): Advanced Computing and Software
PROJECTED CMMC LEVEL REQUIREMENT: Level 2 (Self)
The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.
OBJECTIVE: Develop software for a commercially available Virtual Reality (VR) headset to view new ship construction models in an immersive environment.
DESCRIPTION: When constructing a DDG-51 Class Destroyer, Navy engineers regularly need to perform design reviews to verify and validate proposed ship changes. Currently, these design reviews are held using screenshots and model sharing of the ship’s Computer Aided Design (CAD) models. However, 2D rendering of 3D spaces and objects can make it challenging to assess the actual layout and configuration of items. This can lead to errors in the ship design process, requiring costly rework later in the ship construction cycle.
The Navy seeks an innovative solution for VR software that allows Navy engineers to view the ship construction models as though they were standing in space. The proposed solution would allow the shipbuilder and the Navy to be better able to detect and correct errors early in the construction process. Additionally, such software could be used to train new engineers in the layout and navigation of the ship before they board it for the first time. There is currently no commercial technology that can meet this need.
The development of VR software faces several technical challenges. First, the shipyards use Computer Aided Three-Dimensional Interactive Application (CATIA) and Ship Constructor CAD models. The VR model must be capable of accurately using the outputs of both these CAD programs. The Navy understands this can be difficult and will require good knowledge of CAD file formats. Secondly, the user must be able to navigate virtual space and manipulate the environment. Many VR programs have some form of self-directed navigation. Destroyer spaces can have complex interior layouts and minimizing any motion sickness the user might experience while navigating VR can be a challenge. The solution should be able to load and view multiple CAD files, navigating between them with minimal lag and overlaying them to view discrepancies.
PHASE I: Develop a concept for a VR Model Walkthrough solution that meets the requirements listed in the Description. Demonstrate the feasibility of the concept in meeting Navy needs and establish that the concept can be developed into a useful product for the Navy. Feasibility will be established via a program demo or other means deemed appropriate. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities description to build a prototype solution in Phase II.
PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase I, develop and deliver a prototype VR Model Walkthrough solution. The prototype software will be evaluated to determine capability in meeting the performance goals defined in the Phase II Statement of Work. Product performance will be demonstrated through multiple evaluations over the development cycle. An extended test by Navy personnel will be used to refine the prototype into a design that meets Navy requirements. Prepare a Phase III manufacturing and development plan to transition the Virtual Reality Model Walkthrough to Navy use.
PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Navy use. Develop operations, maintenance, and technical manuals for the software to support the transition to the Navy.
There are many potential commercial applications for a VR Model to aid engineering design and training. Notable examples include commercial construction, commercial shipbuilding, architecture, and test and research reactors.
REFERENCES:
KEYWORDS: Virtual Reality (VR); Ship Design; 3D Software; CAD Models; Ship Construction; Self-Directed Navigation in VR
TPOC 1
Devin Burke
(202) 486-8482
Devin.C.Burke.civ@us.navy.milTPOC 2
Erik Faaborg
(406) 396-3088
erik.c.faaborg.civ@us.navy.mil
** TOPIC NOTICE ** |
The Navy Topic above is an "unofficial" copy from the Navy Topics in the DoW FY-26 Release 1 SBIR BAA. Please see the official DoW Topic website at www.dodsbirsttr.mil/submissions/solicitation-documents/active-solicitations for any updates. The DoW issued its Navy FY-26 Release 1 SBIR Topics pre-release on April 13, 2026 which opens to receive proposals on May 6, 2026, and closes June 3, 2026 (12:00pm ET). Direct Contact with Topic Authors: During the pre-release period (April 13, through May 5, 2026) proposing firms have an opportunity to directly contact the Technical Point of Contact (TPOC) to ask technical questions about the specific BAA topic. The TPOC contact information is listed in each topic description. Once DoW begins accepting proposals on May 6, 2026 no further direct contact between proposers and topic authors is allowed unless the Topic Author is responding to a question submitted during the Pre-release period. DoD On-line Q&A System: After the pre-release period, until May 20, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET, proposers may submit written questions through the DoW On-line Topic Q&A at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/submissions/login/ by logging in and following instructions. In the Topic Q&A system, the questioner and respondent remain anonymous but all questions and answers are posted for general viewing. DoW Topics Search Tool: Visit the DoW Topic Search Tool at www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/ to find topics by keyword across all DoW Components participating in this BAA.
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