VADUM INC — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: A17-132
VADUM INC — SBIR Phase II award from Department of Defense.
- Amount
- $999,811
- Agency
- Department of Defense · Army
- Program / Phase
- SBIR · Phase II
- Topic
- A17-132
- Solicitation
- 17.2
- NAICS
- —
- Place of performance
- NC
- Period
- 2018-10-12 → 2022-01-31
Description
Vadum will design and demonstrate Hearing Protection and Active Communication (HPAC) system. The HPAC system will provide clear and reliable audio communication from the handler to the canine, and protect canine hearing from loud external sounds. The HPAC system will enhance the capabilities of the working dog and handler team. The headset will preserve canine situational awareness of ambient environmental sounds. External-facing microphones will allow the canine to hear ambient noises and face-to-face handler commands while protecting against impulse and sustained loud noises. Technical challenges include headset ergonomic considerations, such as ease of fitting and removal, assurance of proper acoustic sealing, and high canine comfort (light weight, breath-ability, and ear position).