Modular protection system comprising energy-absorbing capsules

Abstract

The invention relates to a modular protection system comprising energy-absorbing capsules that dissipate mechanical energy from impacts or vibrations. Each capsule has an outer shell, flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid, and an internal structure with optional partitions, sub-partitions, enclosures, coatings, reinforcement, or smart components. The interior holds deformable or energy-absorbing material such as non-Newtonian fluids, gels, foams, fibers, granules, or composites. Capsules may be arranged in rows, grids, or capsule-within-capsule forms, and integrated into garments, panels, or infrastructure using textile channels, adhesives, fasteners, or lamination. Optional features include sensors, smart partitions, external protective plates, perforations, or connectors. The system supports modular replacement and adaptation to specific threats or environments, enabling scalable protection from wearable clothing to structural defense.

Description

[0001] INTERNATIONAL APPLICATION UNDER THE PATENT COOPERATION TREATY (PCT)

[0002] MODULAR PROTECTION SYSTEM COMPRISING ENERGY-ABSORBING CAPSULES

[0003] Applicant:

[0004] Name: Shoval HABLER

[0005] Nationality: Israeli

[0006] Residence: Israel

[0007] Inventor:

[0008] Name: Shoval HABLER

[0009] Priority Claim:

[0010] Country: United States (US)

[0011] Application No.: 63 / 690,944

[0012] Filing Date: 05 September 2024

[0013] Type: Provisional Application

[0014] International Filing Information:

[0015] International Filing Date: 28 August 2025

[0016] Receiving Office: RO / IB (International Bureau)

[0017] Language of Filing: English

[0018] Declaration:

[0019] The applicant hereby declares that she is the sole inventor and the sole applicant, filing independently for the international application under the PCT.

[0020] Submited via ePCT by the applicant, Shoval HABLER, with intention to preserve the priority date. Modular Protection System Comprising Energy-Absorbing Capsules

[0021] International Patent Application

[0022] Date: 28.08.2025

[0023] Inventor: Shoval HABLER

[0024] Priority Claim

[0025] This PCT application builds upon and extends the concepts outlined in the provisional patent application previously filed by the inventor. It includes significant expansions regarding modular configurations, integration methods, layered structures, interchangeable components, and the potential uses of diverse energy-absorbing materials, without being limited to any specific formula or application.

[0026] Description of the Invention

[0027] This invention introduces a flexible, modular, and fabric-integrated protection system that significantly differs from prior bulky or rigid designs by offering adaptability, comfort, and seamless integration into everyday wear.

[0028] At its core, the system is based on energy-absorbing capsules that serve as modular units, which may be embedded into garments, textiles, protective gear, or structural surfaces. Each capsule may vary in size and composition, housing materials such as non-Newtonian fluids, gels, granules, basalt fibers, or composite layered structures, sealed within flexible or semi-rigid outer shell.

[0029] Crucially, the capsules can be configured as part of an advanced smart capsule system, incorporating embedded or attached sensors and / or smart materials designed to dynamically respond to environmental changes. These smart capsules enable real-time detection of impacts, deformation, pressure, or environmental parameters, thereby enhancing energy absorption capabilities and providing adaptive protective performance across diverse applications. Technical Field

[0030] The invention falls within the field of wearable personal protection and modular shockabsorbing systems, particularly systems designed for integration into clothing, gear, or public infrastructure to mitigate impacts while maintaining comfort, mobility, and discretion.

[0031] Background

[0032] Existing protective solutions often rely on rigid plates or bulky constructions, which are heavy, inflexible, and visually prominent. There is a need for lightweight, user- adaptable, and aesthetically integrated protection that supports daily wear or structural application without hindering movement.

[0033] Prior Art

[0034] Current protective technologies commonly employ rigid or semi-rigid armor plates, foam padding, or woven fibers to absorb impact. These systems are typically limited in flexibility, comfort, and user adaptability. Some incorporate gel or fluid-based inserts, but lack modularity, removability, or textile integration. Furthermore, existing designs are generally targeted at military or industrial applications and are not optimized for public, civilian, or urban safety use in garments, accessories, or infrastructure.

[0035] Definitions

[0036] For the purposes of this application, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

[0037] “Smart capsule”: An energy-absorbing capsule incorporating one or more embedded or attached sensors and / or smart materials capable of dynamically responding to environmental stimuli such as impact, deformation, pressure, temperature, or other physical parameters.

[0038] “Energy-absorbing material”: Any deformable substance capable of dissipating mechanical energy upon impact, including but not limited to non-Newtonian fluids, gels, foams, granules, fibers, or composite materials.

[0039] “Modular system”: A system composed of individual units or capsules that can be independently integrated, removed, or replaced within a larger structure or garment.

[0040] “Deformable material”: A material capable of reversible or irreversible shape change under mechanical stress to absorb energy.

[0041] “Integration surface”: Any fabric, garment, textile layer, structural panel, or object to which capsules may be attached, embedded, sewn, laminated, or bonded.

[0042] General Statement of the Invention

[0043] The present invention relates to a modular energy-absorbing capsule system designed to dissipate mechanical energy from impacts, shocks, or vibrations, while maintaining a lightweight, adaptable, and integration-friendly structure. Unlike conventional protective solutions that rely on rigid plates or bulky layered assemblies, the disclosed system employs one or more capsules with configurable internal architecture, including optional partitions, sub-partitions, coatings, and structural reinforcements, to control the distribution and dissipation of energy.

[0044] In certain embodiments, the internal partitions are specifically configured to manage and redistribute impact forces within the capsule, thereby improving energy absorption performance compared to capsules without such partitions. The partitions may function not only as structural reinforcements but also as sequential energy barriers, gradually reducing energy transfer through a multi-stage absorption mechanism.

[0045] The modular capsule array enables replacement, reconfiguration, or integration of capsules made from different materials, densities, or internal geometries of partitions to achieve a customized protection profile for specific threats, operational environments, or user requirements — without redesigning or replacing the entire system. By strategically combining different capsule types within the same array, a multi-stage energy absorption profile can be designed to address complex impact scenarios.

[0046] The modular nature of the capsules allows integration into a wide range of substrates, including fabrics, garments, protective equipment, panels, infrastructure components, and other surfaces, using permanent or removable attachment methods. The invention provides a high degree of design flexibility, enabling the capsules to be manufactured in various geometries, dimensions, and material compositions, suitable for both localized and large-area protection, and in certain embodiments allowing cost-efficient adaptation compared to conventional protective systems.

[0047] The described system is not limited to a specific protection scenario or industry sector but constitutes a scalable platform adaptable to nearly any environment requiring mechanical energy mitigation. Its modular and reconfigurable nature enables rapid deployment across sectors ranging from personal protection and sports equipment to security, transportation, infrastructure, and aerospace. The ability to combine replaceable capsules with customized energy absorption profiles allows the system to address both localized threats and large-scale protection needs using the same core technology. This universality ensures that once adopted in one field, the technology can be replicated and expanded globally, giving early adopters a significant advantage.

[0048] In certain embodiments, the capsules may additionally incorporate integrated sensors, smart materials, or responsive coatings to enable real-time monitoring, adaptive performance, or enhanced environmental protection. Additional optional elements may include ballistic plates, rigid outer shells, smart partitions, capsule-within-capsule configurations, adhesive layers, electronic connectors, internal bags, overlying or underlying material layers, external lamination layers, and perforations in shells or partitions, to address specific protective or functional requirements.

[0049] This combination of adaptive mechanical energy absorption, modular deployment, replaceable components, and compatibility with diverse protective applications — from personal protection to large-scale structural defense — provides a versatile, scalable, and cost-efficient solution that addresses the limitations of existing systems. Through rapid reconfiguration and local replacement of energy-absorbing modules, the system can maintain optimal protection performance over extended service life while minimizing downtime or resource consumption. The platform’s flexibility enables deployment of a single core design across a broad spectrum of operational scenarios, thereby creating a unified solution framework for diverse industries. Vision and Life-Saving Mission

[0050] This invention was born out of a deep mission to save lives and create a breakthrough in the world of protective technologies. By introducing a new generation of smart, lightweight, and adaptable protection, this system opens new horizons for both personal and public safety. It is not only a technological innovation but a commitment to future resilience — where protection becomes more human-centered, modular, and effective. The vision is to deliver advanced defense capabilities in a wearable or integrable form, accessible to industries, individuals, and emergency responders worldwide.

[0051] Summary of the invention

[0052] This invention represents a breakthrough in modular protective systems by offering a lightweight, adaptable, and smart solution designed for integration into fabrics, garments, and public infrastructure. The core innovation lies in energy-absorbing capsules that can be configured as smart capsules, integrating sensors and responsive materials to provide dynamic protection tailored to environmental conditions.

[0053] The modular design allows for broad application across military, civilian, medical, and industrial sectors, offering customizable, washable, and replaceable components. This system is poised to redefine safety standards by combining cutting-edge material science with flexible, user-centered protection.

[0054] The invention holds the potential to save lives, prevent injuries, and empower vulnerable populations, aligning technological advancement with a mission-driven vision for global safety and resilience.

[0055] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0056] Fig. 1 - Overview of the capsule layout, including outer shell (10) and internal partition (12).

[0057] Fig. 2 - Cross-sectional view of a capsule with internal compartments containing energy-absorbing material (14). Fig. 3 - Top view of capsule design with symmetrical partitioning and material distribution.

[0058] Fig. 4 - Capsule integrated in garment structure, showing textile channel (20) and closure mechanism (22).

[0059] Fig. 5 - Capsule with embedded sensor (16) and reinforcement plate (18).

[0060] Fig. 6 - Exploded view with external lamination layer (24).

[0061] Fig. 7 - Capsule geometries (elliptical, hexagonal, angular).

[0062] Fig. 8 - Capsule in protective vest with mounting interface (26).

[0063] Fig. 9 - Comparative impact test with and without partitions (12).

[0064] Fig. 10 - Exploded smart capsule: shell (10), fluid (14), partition (12), sensor (16), reinforcement (18).

[0065] Fig. 11 - Smart capsule with impact detection module (28).

[0066] Fig. 12 - Capsule in infrastructure element (30).

[0067] Fig. 13 - Experimental setup for impact testing of capsule configurations.

[0068] Fig. 14 - Result: Object protected by capsule with internal partition remains intact after impact.

[0069] Fig. 15 - Result: Object beneath capsule without partition is shattered upon impact.

[0070] Fig. 16 - Capsule with perforated partition or shell (44) for airflow / fluid transfer.

[0071] Fig. 17 - Curtain panel (46) with integrated capsules.

[0072] Fig. 18 - Rigid panel (48) with integrated capsules.

[0073] Fig. 19 - Capsule with sub-partition (50) for localized control of energy absorption.

[0074] Fig. 20 - Capsule with overlying / underlying material layer (52) relative to partition.

[0075] Fig. 21 - Capsule containing internal bag(s) (58).

[0076] Fig. 22 - Flexible strip or sheet (60) with integrated capsules.

[0077] Fig. 23 - Capsule with adhesive layer (62) for attachment.

[0078] Fig. 24 - Capsule with mechanical attachment element (64).

[0079] Fig. 25 - Capsule with ballistic / protective plate (66). Fig. 26 - Capsule with external rigid outer shell (68).

[0080] Fig. 26B - Capsule with outer shell openings / perforations (70).

[0081] Fig. 27 - Capsule with electronic connector (72) for transmitting power or data between embedded components.

[0082] Fig. 28 - Capsule with smart partition (74).

[0083] Fig. 29 - Capsule-within-capsule configuration (76).

[0084] Fig. 30 - Capsules arranged in continuous sheet or strip for large-area coverage.

[0085] Reference Numerals

[0086] Reference Numerals - List of Components

[0087] 10 - outer shell (capsule shell)

[0088] 12 - Internal partition

[0089] 14 - Energy-absorbing / deformable material

[0090] 16 - Embedded sensor

[0091] 18 - Ceramic / reinforcement plate

[0092] 20 - Textile channel

[0093] 22 - Closure mechanism 24 - External lamination layer 26 - Mounting interface 28 - Impact detection module 30 - Infrastructure integration element 44 - Perforations / openings in partitions or shell 46 - Curtain panel with integrated capsules 48 - Rigid panel with integrated capsules 50 - S ub-partition 52 - Overlying / underlying material layer 58 - Internal bag(s) 60 - Flexible strip or sheet with integrated capsules 62 - Adhesive layer 64 - Mechanical atachment element 66 - Ballistic / protective plate 68 - External rigid outer shell 70 - Openings / perforations in outer shell 72 - Electronic connector 74 - Smart partition 76 - Inner capsule (capsule-within-capsule) Integration Methods The system’s modular nature allows for flexible integration methods, including: Inner mesh pockets Textile channels Attachment mechanisms such as Velcro, clips, zippers, bonding, or ultrasonic welding The capsules can be embedded permanently or designed for easy removal and replacement.

[0094] Manufacturing Methods

[0095] Capsules may be manufactured by:

[0096] Casting with internal partitions in molds

[0097] Filling through openings sealed by welding or adhesives

[0098] Using snap-lock enclosures

[0099] Employing laminated multi-layer assemblies that allow textile bonding or mechanical fastening.

[0100] Detailed Description of the Drawings

[0101] In certain embodiments, and without limitation, the capsule further comprises an external protective element, including, but not limited to, a ballistic plate, reinforcement plate, shield, housing, or cover. Such an external element may be fixedly or removably attached to the outer shell, and is configured to protect any internal or external component of the capsule, including, without limitation, sensors, partitions, or energyabsorbing materials, and may be formed from any rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible material, in any geometry, dimension, or arrangement suitable for the intended protective function.

[0102] Referring to Fig. 1, the modular energy-absorbing system comprises one or more capsules (10), each having an outer shell which may be flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid, and at least one internal partition (12). The internal volume contains energy-absorbing or deformable material (14), which may include gels, foams, non-Newtonian fluids, or other suitable substances.

[0103] Fig. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a capsule with internal compartments defined by partitions (12) containing the energy-absorbing material (14).

[0104] Fig. 3 illustrates a top view of a capsule design with symmetrical partitioning to optimize material distribution.

[0105] Fig. 4 shows a capsule integrated into a garment structure, positioned within a textile channel (20) and secured by a closure mechanism (22).

[0106] Fig. 5 depicts a capsule with an embedded sensor (16) and an optional ceramic or reinforcement plate (18) for added structural or ballistic protection.

[0107] Fig. 6 is an exploded view illustrating the addition of an external lamination layer (24) for textile or surface integration.

[0108] Fig. 7 displays various capsule geometries including elliptical, hexagonal, and angular forms.

[0109] Fig. 8 shows a capsule integrated into a protective vest with a mounting interface (26) for modular attachment.

[0110] Fig. 9 presents comparative impact test results demonstrating the benefits of internal partitions (12) for energy dispersion.

[0111] Fig. 10 illustrates an exploded smart capsule with the shell (10), energy-absorbing material (14), partition (12), sensor (16), and reinforcement plate (18).

[0112] Fig. 11 depicts a smart capsule configuration including an impact detection module (28) for monitoring real-time performance.

[0113] Fig. 12 shows a capsule integrated into an infrastructure element (30), such as furniture or public installations.

[0114] Fig. 13 shows the experimental setup used for comparative impact testing of capsules with and without internal partitions, including the positioning of the test object, impactor, and measurement equipment.

[0115] Fig. 14 presents the result of an impact test where the object was protected by a capsule incorporating an internal partition, showing that the object remained intact after the impact.

[0116] Fig. 15 presents the result of an impact test where the object was protected by a capsule without an internal partition, showing that the object was shattered upon impact. Fig. 16 shows a capsule with perforations or openings (44) in the partition or outer shell to allow airflow, fluid transfer, or selective environmental exchange.

[0117] Fig. 17 depicts a curtain panel (46) with integrated capsules for use in flexible protective barriers.

[0118] Fig. 18 shows a rigid panel (48) with integrated capsules for fixed installations.

[0119] Fig. 19 illustrates a capsule with a sub-partition (50) designed for localized control of energy absorption.

[0120] Fig. 20 depicts a capsule with an overlying or underlying material layer (52) positioned relative to the partition to alter mechanical properties.

[0121] Fig. 21 shows a capsule containing one or more internal bags (58) holding the energyabsorbing material.

[0122] Fig. 22 illustrates a flexible strip or sheet (60) with integrated capsules for modular arrangement.

[0123] Fig. 23 shows a capsule with an adhesive layer (62) for attachment to fabrics, panels, or surfaces.

[0124] Fig. 24 depicts a capsule with a mechanical attachment element (64), such as a bolt, clip, or rivet.

[0125] Fig. 25 illustrates a capsule with a ballistic or protective plate (66) for enhanced impact resistance.

[0126] Fig. 26 shows a capsule with an external rigid outer shell (68).

[0127] Fig. 26B depicts a capsule with openings or perforations (70) in the outer shell to allow environmental interaction.

[0128] Fig. 27 illustrates a capsule with an electronic connector (72) for transmitting power, signals, or data between embedded sensors or control components.

[0129] Fig. 28 depicts a capsule with a smart partition (74) capable of changing its physical properties in response to impact, temperature, or other stimuli.

[0130] Fig. 29 shows a capsule- within-capsule configuration (76) for multi-stage energy absorption.

[0131] Fig. 30 illustrates capsules arranged in a continuous sheet or strip for large-area coverage and protection. Example Application and Drawing References

[0132] An energy-absorbing capsule measuring 10x5 cm, containing a non-Newtonian fluid sealed within an internal bladder and encased in a flexible TPU shell, is integrated into an inner mesh pocket of a safety vest. This capsule is removable, washable, and strategically positioned over key body areas such as the shoulders, chest, and ribs to provide effective impact protection while maintaining comfort and mobility.

[0133] The capsule measuring 10x5 cm is shown in Fig. 2, encased in a flexible outer shell (10) with an internal energy-directing partition (12). In some embodiments, the energy - absorbing material may be a shear-thickening fluid (14), and the capsule may include an embedded sensor (16) or a ceramic reinforcement plate (18) for added structural response.

[0134] Capsules may be mounted within textile channels (20) and secured by closure mechanisms (22) such as zippers or Velcro. Fig. 6 illustrates lamination layers (24) for textile integration. The mounting interface (26) is depicted in Fig. 8. In smart capsule configurations (Fig. 11), an impact detection module (28) is embedded. Fig. 12 shows integration into public infrastructure (30) such as seating, walls, or transit elements.

[0135] Experimental Demonstration

[0136] An informal home-based experiment was conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of internal partitioning in energy-absorbing capsules. Two pouches were prepared using non-Newtonian fluid sealed in plastic bags — one with an internal flexible partition and one without.

[0137] A piece of dry pasta was placed between each capsule and a wooden surface. Both were subjected to identical impact using a standard kitchen mallet.

[0138] As shown in Fig. 13-15, the capsule with an internal partition successfully absorbed the energy, leaving the pasta intact (Fig. 14), whereas the non-partitioned capsule failed to absorb the shock, resulting in pasta breakage (Fig. 15). The impact process is illustrated in Fig. 13.

Claims

ClaimsWhat is claimed is:

1. A modular energy-absorbing system comprising one or more capsules, each comprising a flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid outer shell and at least one internal volume containing a deformable or energy-absorbing material, wherein the capsules are configured to absorb mechanical energy and are integrated with, attached to, or embedded within any surface, structure, garment, fabric, soft substrate, rigid substrate, or any other suitable object for protective purposes.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one partition is oriented at a predetermined angle relative to an expected direction of impact and defines two or more compartments within the capsule, each compartment containing a material having different mechanical response characteristics, such that the materials act sequentially or in combination to absorb and dissipate mechanical energy in multiple stages, thereby enhancing overall energy absorption performance.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the deformable or energy-absorbing material comprises one or more of:(a) non-Newtonian fluid, gel, foam, elastomer, polymer, viscoelastic compound, fibrous material, particulate material, composite, aerogel, or phase-change material;(b) magnetorheological fluid, electrorheological fluid, shear-thickening or shearthinning material;(c) any functional equivalent or combination thereof.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the energy-absorbing material comprises thermally responsive, chemically reactive, or environmentally responsive substances.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule comprises a single internal compartment or multiple internal compartments separated by one or more partitions, sub-partitions, or layered dividers, said partitions being flexible, semi-rigid, rigid, collapsible, fixed, or dynamically responsive.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the deformable or energy-absorbing material itself is coated, encapsulated, laminated, or surface-treated with one or more layers, films, or shells of any geometry, thickness, or composition, said layers comprising polymer, ceramic, metallic, composite, smart, biodegradable, recyclable, or hybrid materials, or any combination thereof, and being configured to modify, enhance, or control the properties, performance, or interaction of the material within or outside the capsule.

7. The system of claim 5, wherein the number, size, thickness, shape, arrangement, or location of any partitions, sub-partitions, or cells within the capsule is unrestricted, and may vary in any configuration, including placement above, below, adjacent to, or within other layers, and optionally comprising any material or combination of materials.

8. The system of claim 5, wherein at least one partition, sub-partition, internal layer, or shell layer comprises integrated sensors, smart materials, coatings, laminates, or functional treatments configured to modify mechanical, thermal, chemical, optical, or electronic properties, and optionally comprises perforations or openings to allow airflow, fluid transfer, or selective environmental exchange.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule comprises one or more enclosures, located inside, outside, adjacent to, or integrated with the capsule, each enclosure being configured to contain the same or different deformable or energy-absorbing materials, either individually, in combination, or in separate compartments, the enclosures being of any geometry, size, orientation, thickness, or arrangement, and optionally flexible, semi-rigid, rigid, collapsible, inflatable, removable, replaceable, disposable, or formed of any suitable natural, synthetic, composite, or hybrid material, or any combination thereof.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the outer shell, inner layer, or any structural component of the capsule includes reinforcement elements, structural ribs, honeycomb structures, geometric patterns, or corrugated profiles to enhance energy dissipation.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule comprises at least one smart component selected from a partition, sub-partition, inner layer, or outer shell, the smart componentbeing configured to dynamically modify one or more of its physical, mechanical, electrical, thermal, chemical, or optical properties in response to impact, load, environmental change, or any triggering condition, and being of any geometry, thickness, orientation, composition, or material, and optionally located inside, outside, adjacent to, or integrated with the capsule.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule geometry comprises spherical, elliptical, cylindrical, polygonal, honeycomb, angular, rectangular, or semi-cylindrical forms, arranged in parallel, perpendicular, diagonal, staggered, or other orientations.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule is positioned above, below, between, or within one or more layers of textile, sheet material, or any substrate, and optionally covered or enclosed by a covering layer, wrap, film, curtain sheet, bonded layer, or protective over-layer of fabric, polymer, metal, ceramic, composite, or other material.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein one or more capsules are nested within one or more other capsules, forming capsule-within-capsule or capsule-within-capsule configurations.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule is attached, mounted, secured, or retained by any fastening or joining method including, without limitation, textile channels, pockets, adhesive layers, hook-and-loop fasteners, zippers, clips, snaps, bonding, welding, lamination, mechanical interlocks, stitching, riveting, or molding-in- place.

16. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule is water-resistant, waterproof, vapor- permeable, breathable, thermally insulating, thermally conductive, chemically resistant, or otherwise environmentally protected.

17. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule includes one or more embedded or attached sensors selected from: piezoelectric, accelerometric, strain, pressure, temperature, humidity, or environmental condition sensors.

18. The system of claim 1, wherein the system includes communication, feedback, or control components configured to transmit or receive data from the capsules to an external device, remote monitoring system, or control network.

19. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule is integrated into or onto garments, apparel, protective clothing, helmets, body armor, footwear, accessories, equipment, furniture, panels, walls, vehicles, transportation interiors, sports gear, medical devices, or public infrastructure.

20. The system of claim 1, wherein capsules are arranged in continuous rows, grids, matrices, clusters, or patterns, optionally connected by flexible or rigid linking elements.

21. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule or system is configured to change its stiffness, shape, or other physical property in response to an impact, load, environmental change, or other triggering event.

22. A method for assembling a modular energy-absorbing system, the method comprising:(a) providing one or more capsules, each having a flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid outer shell enclosing at least one internal volume containing a deformable or energyabsorbing material;(b) optionally including in the capsules one or more partitions, sub-partitions, coatings, integrated sensors, reinforcement plates, or openings;(c) integrating the capsules into, onto, or within a structure, garment, or surface; and(d) securing the capsules using one or more attachment methods selected from textile channels, adhesive layers, lamination, welding, mechanical fastening, or any other suitable means.

23. A method for manufacturing an energy-absorbing capsule, the method comprising:(a) forming an outer shell of flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid material by dipping, molding, injection molding, casting, compression molding, vacuum forming, or any other suitable forming process, optionally using a mold shaped according to a desired capsule geometry and made from thermoplastic, thermoset, curable, or any other suitable material;(b) optionally allowing the shell to solidify or cure and removing the shell from the mold;(c) filling the shell with a deformable or energy-absorbing material;(d) optionally providing one or more internal partitions, sub-partitions, coatings, integrated sensors, reinforcement plates, or openings; and(e) sealing the capsule using welding, bonding, lamination, molding, casting, or any other suitable closure technique.

24. Use of the system of claim 1 for reducing mechanical impact in any application including, without limitation, clothing, equipment, transportation interiors, sports gear, medical products, safety gear, military or tactical products, or public infrastructure.

25. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule and / or the energy-absorbing material is formed from or incorporates any natural, synthetic, recycled, biodegradable, or sustainable material.

26. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one partition, sub-partition, or shell layer is located above or below another layer and is coated, laminated, or otherwise treated to alter physical properties.

27. The system of claim 1, wherein capsules may be provided individually, in modular groups, or as continuous flexible or rigid sheets, strips, or mats containing multiple capsules, with or without an underlying or overlying substrate.

28. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule is produced or assembled by any combination of the methods described in claims 22 and 23.

29. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule comprises a covering or enclosure that fully or partially surrounds the capsule, the covering being made of fabric, polymer, metal, composite, or any other rigid or flexible material.

30. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule is nested, enclosed, or encapsulated within one or more additional capsules, each containing the same or different materials, for multi-stage energy absorption.

31. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule comprises or is combined with one or more layers of adhesive material for attachment to any surface, fabric, or substrate.

32. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule comprises any shape, size, or volume suitable for the intended protective application.

33. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule or system is adapted for permanent or removable installation.

34. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule is adapted for use in aquatic, high- humidity, high-temperature, low-temperature, vacuum, or other extreme environments.

35. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one component comprises perforations, openings, or channels configured to allow airflow, fluid transfer, or thermal regulation.

36. The system of claim 1, wherein capsules are linked, hinged, or otherwise connected to allow relative motion between them during impact.

37. The system of claim 1, wherein capsules are oriented or positioned in patterns to direct, channel, or redistribute energy in a predetermined manner.

38. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one capsule component comprises a smart coating or treatment that changes color, conductivity, or other property in response to stress or environmental change.

39. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule is configured for use in combination with other protective systems, including armor plates, airbags, or reactive systems.

40. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule is dimensioned, proportioned, or shaped for location-specific protection in a garment or product.

41. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule or system is designed to be manufactured in whole or in part by additive manufacturing, 3D printing, or rapid prototyping techniques.

42. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule includes structural elements or inserts to control the movement, distribution, or confinement of the energy-absorbing material during impact.

43. The system of claim 1, wherein the capsule further comprises an external protective element, including, without limitation, a ballistic plate, reinforcement plate, shield, housing, or cover, fixedly or removably attached to the outer shell, and configured to protect any internal or external component of the capsule, including sensors, partitions, or energy-absorbing materials.

44. The system or capsule according to any preceding claim, wherein the energyabsorbing material comprises one or more of: liquids, gels, foams, solids, powders, granules, fibers, composites, reactive materials, phase-change materials, shearthickening materials, shear-thinning materials, magnetorheological materials, electrorheological materials, viscoelastic materials, thermoplastic materials, thermosetmaterials, biodegradable materials, recyclable materials, environmentally sustainable materials, or any functional equivalent thereof — whether existing at the time of filing or developed in the future — in any quantity, dosage, concentration, configuration, or distribution within the capsule, wherein the capsule is defined in any geometry, orientation, dimension, or arrangement, and optionally includes one or more partitions, sub-partitions, coatings, laminates, or integrated sensors, and is surrounded or combined with any flexible, semi-rigid, or outer shell, fabric, textile, sheet, film, or structural surface, whether alone or in combination with additional capsules, including configurations of capsule-within-capsule.

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