Zipper-type Integrated Performance Enabled Retainer (ZIPER)

The U.S. Army requires rugged, low-cost electrical and optical connectors for soldiers and other personnel that link them to a variety of electronic, antennae, computer interfaces, and other sub-systems. These connectors must be wearable on standardclothing and equipment. They should be specifically designed for the human body and have resistance to environmental and physical stresses ranging from rain and snow to combat. They must be both conformable to the human body, and comfortable for the newgeneration of warfighters with body-worn electronics.To meet the Army's need, Physical Optics Corporation proposes to develop a new zipper-type Integrated Performance Enabled Retainer (ZIPER). ZIPER is both innovative and familiar. Designed like the familiar zipper, ZIPER integrates both optical andelectronic connectors into a small, inexpensive system that connects and disconnects smoothly and can be easily operated by touch in complete darkness. ZIPER's hardened connections are sealed against fluids and contaminants as well as electromagneticpenetration in both open and closed positions. In Phase I POC will develop and assemble a ZIPER model to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed approach. In Phase II, ZIPER design will be optimized and a deployable engineering prototype will beproduced. Besides fulfilling the needs of the US Army, ZIPER will solve critical problems related to growing miniaturization of computer and electronic peripheral connectors, ranging from surge protectors to multiplugs. ZIPER can integrate video, firewire and wireless connectors in an easily transportable package. Because it is based on one of the world's most familiar objects - the simple zipper - ZIPER's utility for mobile or fixed systems and low cost promise a very bright commercial marketingoutlook.