Intelligent Automation, Inc. — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: N211-013

Description

Current and next-generation helmet systems for aircrew are unvented and have significant edge roll seals and earpads for the users hearing and head protection. As a consequence of this, they pose a risk of causing the wearer to overheat in high-temperature and high-exertion scenarios. To address this problem, Intelligent Automation Inc. proposes to develop a lightweight, modular, passive cooling system for existing (and future) aircrew helmets. The key innovation to the approach is the use of next-generation, flexible, high conductivity material to effectively move heat away from the users head to then be ejected to the adjacent air. This approach has the advantage of being able to have infinite runtime, as it does not rely on electrical power (batteries). It also does not require bulky pumps, liquid lines, or another heavy and complicated components seen in similar systems. The approach will target the helmet liners and earpads, and thus not require modification of the main helmet shell.