SBIR-STTR Award

EY agrees with Air Force that integration of technologies on archaic aircrew ensemble architecture of 1960’s doesn’t allow leveraging the full potential of the component functionalities in the resulting “Christmas Tree Architecture”. EY proposes an IAE architecture where specific functionalities are designated into two main domains. Micro-Climate Domain – Layers of ensemble that are next to the skin and Macro-Climate Domain – where external interaction is fundamentally more critical. Micro-Climate focuses on user physiological and thermal balance issues, Macro-Climate Domain would focus on ballistics and survival related issues. One magic material solution for aircrew ensemble that has all the desired functionalities and work across multiple platforms does not exist. EY proposes a managed risk approach of developing, adapting and integrating multifunctional materials & components (TRL – 6 and above) to develop an IAE ensemble that helps manage the Aircrew’s Micro-Climate. Engineered Yarns (EY) proposes to develop and demonstrate the following low risk multifunctional technologies for IAE. •Bi-Layer no Melt No Drip fabrics for Fire Protection, Thermal and Physiological management •Controlled Air Permeable Electro-Spun Web for CB Protection, Thermal and Physiological management •Hydrogel Based Smart Closure System – User comfort and thermal balance •High Bulk Low Weight Fabrics for Reduced Layers

Keywords:
Multifunctional Components, No Melt No Drip, Hydrogel, Reactive Closure, Thermal Burden Reduction, Water Management, Controlled Air Permeable Electrospun Membrane, Thermal Pro

EY Technologies (EYT) proposed to develop and demonstrate the following low risk multifunctional materials for IAE. Bi-Layer No Melt No Drip Fabric for Fire Protection and Thermal and Physiological management Controlled Air Permeable Electro-Spun Fibrous Membrane for CB Protection, Thermal and Physiological management Hydrogel Based Smart Closure System User Comfort and Thermal Balance Buoyancy Neutral High Modulus Harness System. EYT has successfully demonstrated and delivered on each of its proposed Phase1 deliverables. Building on the success of the Phase 1 EYT proposes to accomplish the following objectives in Phase2 effort:  First, Optimization and Refinement of Component Technologies (F/R Fabrics, Membranes, Hydrogel Closure and Harness); Second, Develop and Optimize Fabric Composite with Controlled Permeable Membrane, F/R and Durable Water-Repellent Shell Fabric; Third, Generate Full Scale Prototypes for both Single Layer and Dual Layer IAE Architecture; Fourth, conduct Comfort Analysis of materials and prototype ensembles through Physical, Ret, Rct, Water-Immersion and Mannequin testing. For Phase 2, EYT intends to govern the refinement of components for IAE architecture by two fundamental principles: o User Acceptance i.e. Comfort through management of Micro-Climate o Protection  (Flame, Thermal and Water - through F/R Fabrics, Hydrogel Closure and Light Weight High Bulk Insulation)

Benefits:
A low cost low risk approach to develop fabrics and textile components that help Reduce Thermal Stresses, improve Thermal Protection and Water Management properties using existing techniques and commercially available materials will have tremendous application in areas beyond Military application. Managing the Micro-Climate Domain of the user Layers of ensemble that are next to the skin and Macro-Climate Domain where external interaction is fundamentally more critical, and material and development approach could potentially save significant levels of investments and be applicable for protection for First Responders, Industrial Workers, Health Care Industry etc.. Furthermore, material technologies would also have great application in providing high performance clothing, beyond Military, in professional sports arena. Similar to Fighter pilot all EYT proposed IAE architecture where specific functionalities were designated into two main domains.  Engineered textile materials can help generate a truly comfortable ensemble for the user providing thermal and moisture management and chemical biological protection, which will have applications in all outdoors sports like - racing, X-treme sports protective gear and even provide home market access (light blankets for home). Such an ensemble system composed of multifunctional component technologies will reduce the risk of thermal injury or cold weather injury and reduce fatality rates. For the military application, Flame Retardant fabric, CB protective fabric, Low Thermal Burden System resulting in a comfortable and wear-and-forget system can be the basis of an integrated Aircrew Ensemble that enables application across all aviation platforms.

Keywords:
Multifunctional Components, No Melt No Drip, Hydrogel Closure, Reactive Closure, Thermal Burden Reduction, Water Management, Controlled Air Permeable