Integrating Electronic Sensors into Ballistic Protective Gear (1000-097)

SI2 Technologies, Inc. (SI2) proposes to develop and implement a sensor system, which can be integrated into ballistic protective gear, such as the military’s Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH). The sensor system will be able to detect and monitor the environment for events which may lead to traumatic brain injury (TBI). Today’s methods of monitoring include external sensors which are bulky and add significant weight to the helmet system. Our approach integrates the sensors with the ballistic composite material to eliminate the parasitic weight of the electronics packaging. In addition, the electronics become integral with the helmet so that it is not a bulky device relying on proper attachment and positioning. In this way, a greater number of sensors can be placed within the helmet to accurately monitor events which may lead to TBI. These advancements are made possible through SI2’s novel Direct Write and Laser Transfer conformal electronics manufacturing technologies which can integrate circuitry and conventional semiconductor devices with curved composite materials. These technologies offer the potential to integrate sensor systems with the helmet to aid in developing more efficient protection and eventually help diagnose when TBI occurs.