Prevention Device Suitable for Exposure to Blast or Concussive Force

Karagozian and Case, Inc. (K&C) and The Center of Injury Biomechanics at Virginia Tech are pleased to present this Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) proposal to continue development of the K&C Blast Protection System (BPS) capable of reducing traumatic brain injury. This phase of development will build upon the success of Phase I, where the K&C BPS was shown to reduce blast pressures at the skull by up to 75% and impulse by up to 50% in testing. To provide that level of performance, the K&C design utilizes improved pad geometry and a novel metamaterial shock isolation system (MSIS) to prevent blast overpressure underwash effects and to more effectively absorb blast induced shock loads. In Phase II the team will develop MSIS designs that incorporate additive manufactured foam, providing anisotropic energy absorption capacity, allowing for novel structural designs to enhance performance. This BPS is designed to meet the requirements stated in DHA211-002 and intended to enhance the survivability of the Warfighter on the modern battlefield.