Next-Generation Ear Seals for Circumaural Headsets and Hearing Protectors

The objective of this proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of producing molded polyurethane viscoelastic foam ear seals with an integral skin, that we call Contoured Foam Pads (CFPs). These CFPs will have a surface profile that has targeted conformability around obstacles that results in an improved acoustic seal around eyeglasses from the military Approved Protective Eyewear List (APEL) and improves the attenuation over the stock ear seal for three commonly used military communication headsets/helmets (the Gentex HGU-56/P Helmet, MSA-Sordin Supreme Pro-X Ear Muff, and David Clark Model H10-13.4 Aviation Headset). These CFPs will be based off currently existing Comply foam technology from Hearing Components that has shown an increase in attenuation over stock Gentex and MSA ear seals, especially in the low frequency. This will serve as a solid platform for further work toward this objective. In addition, our pilot scale production equipment, in-house foam formulation and acoustic testing resources will allow rapid development of functional prototypes.