Open Call for Innovative Defense-Related Dual-Purpose Technologies/Solutions with a Clear Air Force Stakeholder Need

We propose conducting a feasibility study of Mad Apparel Inc's Athos Wearable (Athos) technology for use in reduction of musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs) in TACP students. Surface Electromyography (sEMG) is a well-established technology that has previously been used only in laboratory and academic settings to quantify muscle activity. Athos adapted this technology and created is an array of sEMG sensors embedded into compression clothing. Athos sensors are validated by peer-reviewed research and is commercially available. We currently serve individual consumers and professional and collegiate sports teams. We have over 30 professional and collegiate teams who are currently using Athos to monitor muscle activity, understand athletes at-risk of injury and determine what corrective measures need to be undertake. Our athletic teams have seen a reduction in non-contact MSIs (before vs. after Athos implementation) ranging from 5 to 100%. Athos was established in 2012 and since then has raised more than $50M in venture funds, we have sold $3.5M to individual customers and have had 6500 individual users. We believe that with support from SBIR we will be able to provide a large scale MSI reduction solution to Battlefield Airmen in training and eventually to all students entering the military.