Cut and Puncture Resistant Low Mass Diver Dry Suit with High Mobility

We propose to provide essential protection from lacerations, punctures and abrasion for SOCOM’s free swimming diver force using a multi-layer laminate. The key technology will employs a novel stretch-pleat design with a proven puncture and cut resistant fabric that will allow a lower diving mass ensemble with a focus on mobility. The core puncture and cut layer is based on a lightweight puncture resistant fabric we designed for several NASA’s Mars space flights, where mass was also mission critical. This material was used to build the inflatable impact bags that protected Pathfinder, Spirit and Opportunity vehicles as they did a controlled crash-landing on Mar’s surface with its sharp volcanic rock surface. In addition to this cut and puncture layer, we propose a novel stretch knit made from a unique combination of stretch yarns and high modulus yarns. These two textiles layers will form a lightweight flexible stretch system that will offer the SOCOM diver force unprecedented protection without restricting their mobility. The third component that we propose is a high performance, breathable water barrier that will be sandwiched and protected by the two textile layers, creating a complete system for thermal management essential for the diver adapting to diverse environments. BENEFITS: Stretch-pleat concept with puncture and cut resistant fabric will provide essential protection from lacerations and punctures for free swimming SOCOM diver force and commercial diving community. The technology will combine inherently puncture resistant fabric with stretch pleat design to allow a lower diving mass ensemble with focus on mobility.