Innovative Dive Helmet for Hearing Conservation (1001-860) Navy STTR FY2012.A Sol No.: Navy STTR FY2012.A Topic No.: N12A-T020 Topic Title: Innovative Dive Helmet for Hearing Conservation (1001-860) Proposal No.: N12A-020-0013 Firm: TRITON SYSTEMS, INC. 200 TURNPIKE ROAD CHELMSFORD, Massachusetts 01824 Contact: Tyson Lawrence Phone: (978) 250-4200 Web Site: www.tritonsys.com Abstract: Helmeted divers are exposed to high levels of noise. The sources of these noises can be self-generated (e.g. airflow through the demand-regulators during inhalation and bubble noise during exhalation), as well as transmitted through the helmet from underwater tools. While administrative controls (i.e. noise exposure guidance and regulations) are a necessary part of an overall hearing protection strategy, the critical component that determines success is our ability to eliminate the effects of various noise sources. The proposed Triton system addresses the noises associated with the various dive helmets currently in use by the U.S. Navy. During Phase I Triton will determine the feasibility of developing and constructing the proposed technology to reduce the acoustic noise produced by and transmitted through dive helmets (<84 dBA), with appropriate consideration for optimizing the diver's communication needs. Benefits: Ample documentation exists about the problem of hearing loss in the U.S. military. Acoustic trauma suffered in military settings often results in damage to the cochlea and neural structures of the inner ear. The Department of Veterans Affairs has reported that permanent hearing loss and tinnitus are the two largest causes for disability compensation, and are expected only to rise. On an operational level, it reduces the situational awareness of personnel, impairing their ability to receive communications, and be aware of nearby hazards. Compensation for hearing loss is currently at $1.4B annually, and it is the top disability facing soldiers as they return home. The Triton system will reduce noise exposure to below 84 dBA, protecting sailor's hearing. In addition to the significant military market, the global commercial market for hearing protection is expected to exceed $850 mm by 2015. This technology is expected to garner a significant share of the hearing protection market in the underwater construction and ship husbandry markets. Return