Nonlinear Multi-modal Metamaterial Structure (NoMMS)

The US DHA seeks a preventive technology to reduce the risk of brain injury from a blast that is portable, light-weight, and has a low footprint without additional burden/impedance to Warfighter operations/duties and comfort. IHIO Innovations Corporation (IHIO) has developed a new Nonlinear Multi-modal Metamaterial Structure (NoMMS) based on an innovative multi-modal metamaterial structure capable of blocking blast loading, absorbing energy due to structural and material interaction. In Phase I, IHIO has demonstrated the feasibility of a new blast blocking metamaterial with rigorous simulations and tests. Phase I results show that the innovative NoMMS structure transforms energy transfer characteristics and blocks shockwave propagation almost perfectly. In Phase II we will advance the design into a fully functional NoMMS prototype and demonstrate the efficacy of the Phase II prototype. The Phase II development includes: 1) refinement of our proprietary optimization tools with extensive modifications for NoMMS models, 2) development of optimized Mode 1 and Mode 2 designs with material characterization, 3) fabrication of Phase II prototypes, and 4) demonstration of Phase II prototype at WRAIR and 5) post-data analysis for planning Phase III clinical tests and commercialization.