Ballistic Carrier with Inflatable Flotation Panel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ballistic carriers lack integrated flotation capabilities, making them inefficient for maritime use, where additional buoyancy is necessary for neutral or positive lift in water environments.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of inflatable panels with integrated ballistics and foam layers into ballistic carriers, featuring oral and auto-inflation valves, and breakable connections for adjustable buoyancy, allowing for neutral buoyancy and increased lift when needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If ballistic carriers are designed for land use only, then ballistic protection is provided, but flotation capability is lacking for maritime use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines ballistic protection and flotation capabilities into a single integrated carrier system. The flotation panel is positioned directly behind the ballistic panel, creating a unified garment that provides both land-based ballistic protection and water-based flotation support, eliminating the need for separate life vest equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier is designed to perform multiple functions: ballistic protection when on land and flotation support when in water. The inflatable panel system allows the carrier to adapt to different operational environments, providing versatile protection for maritime special operations personnel who may encounter both ballistic threats and water emergencies.
2Adaptability or versatility
If rigid foam layers are used for flotation, then neutral buoyancy is provided, but adjustability and additional lift capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static rigid foam flotation to dynamic inflatable flotation. The panel can be inflated or deflated based on operational needs, allowing users to adjust buoyancy levels. This dynamic capability enables the carrier to provide neutral buoyancy during normal operation and additional positive lift during emergency situations.
Solution Approach 2:
The flotation capability is modified by changing the physical state of the panel from deflated to inflated. By introducing air into the panel, the system changes its volume and buoyancy parameters, providing adjustable lift capability that can be tailored to different water conditions and operational requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If inflatable panels are added to ballistic carriers, then flotation capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable panel is positioned within the carrier structure, nested between the front and back panels of the ballistic carrier. This integration allows the flotation system to be housed within the existing carrier framework, minimizing additional external complexity while providing essential maritime capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides users with neutral buoyancy in water and adjustable lift capabilities, enhancing safety and mobility in maritime environments by integrating flotation and ballistic protection seamlessly.
Implementation Method 1
the bladder includes one or more foam layers received within the bladder which provides the wearer with neutral buoyancy when the bladder is not inflated
Implementation Method 2
Inflation of the bladder provides additional buoyancy, e.g., in the event of an emergency
Data Source
AI summary
A floatation member for ballistic carrier vest includes a first outer layer and an intermediate layer overlying the first outer layer. A peripheral edge of the intermediate layer is secured to a peripheral edge of the first outer layer to define a first cavity therebetween. A panel selected from a non-ballistic panel and a ballistic panel is received within the first cavity. A second outer layer overlies the intermediate layer and a peripheral edge of the second outer layer secured to the peripheral edge of the intermediate layer to define a second cavity therebetween. A valve configured to deliver an inflation gas into the second cavity. In a further aspect, a ballistic safety article for providing ballistic protection for a person is provided.