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Flexible, fibrous energy managing composite panels

Detailed Technology Description

None

*Abstract

This invention is an improvement over the basic FEAM (fibrous energy absorbing material) technology disclosed in invention UMD12-04, and provides improved materials for use in sports and military helmets, padding, vests, and other clothing and equipment. The original FEAM concept comprises panels in which many short fibers are attached (ΓÇ£flockedΓÇØ) at one end to a substrate, so that the closely-packed fibers extend away from the substrate in an essentially perpendicular manner. The present invention features different combinations of multiple FEAM layers and fabric, sheet, film, spacer fabric and foam dividers, which form very effective, flexible, fibrous energy managing composite panels. A synergistic effect has been discovered in some FEAM/spacer fabric and FEAM/foam embodiments, namely, that the percentage force losses upon mechanical impact of certain types of combined/layered FEAM/divider composite panels are higher than the percentage force loss of each of the individual components. The materials of this invention can be used to enhance existing sports/military helmet energy absorption systems (e.g. making use of foam layers). The material blunts impact like an airbag. FEAM operates as a flexible ΓÇÿspacerΓÇÖ fabric; worn between the helmet or armor and the body surface providing a broad, spring-like compressible air space. FEAM performance can be customized based on fiber denier and length used in construction. FEAM materials can serve as a breathable liner, a layer inside existing cranial and body protection garments such as football, hockey, baseball, bicycle and skateboarding helmets and body armor. This new fibrous material could also provide other body padding like shin, elbow and knee pads. FEAM elements can be effectively enveloped in fabric to provide a complete stand-alone energy-absorbing pad configuration or adhered to existing padding. These materials are lightweight, low cost, and customizable, with the ability to blunt impacts effectively and to spring back instantaneously, while offering breathable comfort. This technology is the subject of a pending PCT patent application.

Country/Region

USA