In-Ear Exposure Sensor with Integrated Noise Attenuation and Communications Capabilities

According to the Department of Defense, there were more than 400,000 known TBI diagnoses in service members between 2000 and 2019 (DVBIC, 2020). Detection and measurement of potential injury due to blast overpressure and blunt impact have been priorities of the US military for many years, especially since Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). Among those deployed, estimated rates of probable TBI range from 11–23%. The objective of this proposal by Diversified Technical Systems and the University of Virginia is to build on the existing DOD systems like the TCAPS in-ear headsets and ATAK plug-in Bluetooth communications software to develop an In-Ear Exposure Sensor (IEES). DTS will build upon groundbreaking sensors and technology developed for other military and sports-related projects, to fast track development of the IEES. The IEES meets all objectives of this solicitation including active hearing protection, communications, as well as detection and measurement of blast overpressure and 6DOF head motion.