Date: Mar 11, 2014 Source: SBIR.gov (
click here to go to the source)
 |
Warfighters are active in harsh environments that include wind, rain, and extreme temperatures of -40 degrees Fahrenheit. As such, they use a variety of protective hand-wear to cope with these conditions, however, these systems do not offer sufficient protection while providing enough dexterity and reliability to perform all mission tasks. Kreamer Sports developed a glove system with a heat source for use in extreme cold temperatures while maintaining hand dexterity. The system makes use of monofilament carbon tow and thin resistant wire to provide the heat source and a super thin, nonmelting, flame-retardant material glove that can be worn under existing military issue gloves. The glove system utilizes a micro-sized electronic controller and rechargeable battery technology. The system provides a comfortable level of heat to the hands for extended periods of time in temperatures as low as -50 degrees Fahrenheit. The company's patented "coreheat" Thermovelocity Protection System ensures maximum dexterity and tactility while reducing weight and bulk from cumbersome, heavy cold weather gear and can easily be blended with other complementary technologies to most any requirement for portable and stationary needs.
Military and Commercial Significance
Kreamer Sports was awarded over $700,000 in funding from the Department of Defense (DoD) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program for the development of its protective hand-wear system.
While the technology was not further developed nor transitioned, it led directly to additional research and development projects with the Navy to develop an experimental dive unit, and with the Army's Product Manager Air Warrior to develop a heat base layer for aircrew members. The company has received funding of roughly $500,000 for these two projects.
Kreamer Sports was acquired by Gerbing's Heated Clothing in 2006. In November 2012, it was announced that Prospect Brands had acquired Gerbing's.
The technology developed by Kreamer could be used in a number of military and civilian applications that require extreme environment hand protection, as well as dexterity. These applications include helicopter door gunners, pipeline operators, snow mobilers and ice boaters.
The technology could also be adapted for other body warming systems, including military and civilian parkas, body suits, footwear, as well as medical applications such as heated trauma and blood/plasma bags.
