Advanced Articulated Soldier Knee and Elbow Protection System

There is an acute need for lightweight, articulating elbow and knee ballistic systems that provide protection against NIJ Level II threat projectiles. The goal of this SBIR Phase II program is to continue development and optimization of an innovative lightweight, articulating elbow and knee protection system that is capable of meeting current Level II protection requirements. The design success will be proven through ballistic testing and user evaluations. Phase I demonstrated the proposed concept for Phase II work. During Phase II we will determine ballistic protection values on curved platform, conduct multiple user evaluations to (1) assess efficiency of interface with retention to the protective clothing systems and (2) determine range of motion with and without elbow and knee protection system. Our design includes a combination of rigid composite and flexible ballistic materials for a full-coverage solution. Our extensive first-hand experience with personal protection establishes our vested interest in developing and implementing an NIJ 0101.04 Level II elbow and knee protection system that enables the soldier to maintain full range of motion. The ArmorWorks team is uniquely qualified to design, validate, and demonstrate the Advanced Soldier Knee and Elbow Protection System.