Protective Helmet Suspension and Retention System Navy SBIR FY2014.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2014.2 Topic No.: N142-085 Topic Title: Protective Helmet Suspension and Retention System Proposal No.: N142-085-0618 Firm: Maritime Applied Physics Corporation 1850 Frankfurst Avenue Baltimore, Maryland 21226-1024 Contact: Nersesse Nersessian Phone: (443) 524-3330 Web Site: www.mapcorp.com Abstract: Maritime Applied Physics Corporation (MAPC) in collaboration with University of Texas at Austin (UTAustin) proposes to develop a suspension pad and retention system for ballistic helmets for the mitigation of blunt and ballistic impact loads using negative stiffness elements. Although various helmet pads are available on the market it is understood that they are not optimized for increased ballistic energy absorption realized by current state of the art helmet shells. Unlike other shock absorbers, negative stiffness suspensions can be tailored to maximize energy absorption for a given force threshold and travel requirement in a resettable manner with the potential for low cost afforded by additive manufacturing. They can even be functionally graded to offer shock isolation for transient loads of various amplitudes. In combination with analytical modeling and experimental testing MAPC and its partner will attempt to demonstrate a helmet suspension that meets the requirements of the solicitation. Benefits: Successful completion of Phase II would result in a helmet suspension pad that provides blunt impact protection up to a threshold velocity of 17.1ft/s, ballistic impact protection up to a threshold average impulse of 0.650lbf-s when impacted with a projectile mass of 124 grains at 1325ft/s. The combined helmet suspension and retention system will also meet comfort, stability, fungal resistance, and blast protection, while weighing less than 0.5lbs and costing less than $100 per system. Return