Non-flammable blast mitigating mat

Abstract

A blast mitigation mat which protects soldiers from an explosion and from the fire and toxic fumes that result. The mat may include a surface layer that includes traction component, an energy absorptive, metallic, non-flammable layer which can include a hollow metallic structure, and a finishing layer. The non-flammable layer is comprised of materials that melt rather than burn. The finishing layer can be mounted to the vehicle or other surfaces subject to blast impulses.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention is directed to blast mitigating devices. Specifically, the present invention is directed to a non-flammable blast mitigating mat to protect those in a vehicle.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have subjected troops within combat vehicles to roadside improvised explosive devices (IED) which are cheap to make but are also highly potent. IEDs are very effective, in part, because they can be buried near the road and explode when a combat vehicle drives past, such that the energy of the blast is directed from the ground up through the under-carriage of the vehicle. In recent years combat vehicles have been shaped to help deflect the explosive percussions away from the undercarriage, thus reducing the amount of energy absorbed by the vehicle and its passengers. Since a vehicle cannot deflect all of the energy from an IED bomb blast, combat vehicles have also been designed with materials that absorb the force of ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes a mat that helps protect soldiers from blast injuries by absorbing the energy of an explosion. Unlike other mats, this invention does not burn or emit toxic gases. It consists of three layers: a surface layer, an absorbent layer, and a finishing layer. The mat has a hollow metallic core that acts as a shock absorber and a mounting plate that helps distribute the force evenly. This invention can help minimize the impact of a blast and protect soldiers from injury.

Problems solved by technology

Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have subjected troops within combat vehicles to roadside improvised explosive devices (IED) which are cheap to make but are also highly potent.

However, a secondary effect of the blast is fire.

Unfortunately, the existing mats are inherently flammable, even when formulated with flame retardants.

Not only is there a risk from fire, but burning polymers typically emit toxic gases which are also hazardous to soldiers in the vehicle.

As the occupants are frequently belted in place, the fire and smoke from a burning mat creates unacceptable life threatening conditions.

Images