Abstract: A pad is disclosed that includes first and second outer layers. The outer layers include a plurality of channels at least partially filled with shear-thickening fluid. A shear layer is positioned between the first and second outer layers. The first and second outer layers may include first and second sheets that are bonded to one another in bonded portions and not bonded to one another in non-bonded portions such that the channels are defined by the non-bonded portions. The bonded portions may be perforated to facilitate air flow. The shear layer includes a lattice structure such as a plurality of rods extending between the first and second outer layers and oriented at a non-perpendicular angle to the outer layers. The rods themselves may be filled with shear-thickening fluid. The channels in the outer layers are criss-crossed to form a lattice or network in the plane of the outer layers.

Abstract: A pad is disclosed that includes first and second outer layers. The outer layers include a plurality of channels at least partially filled with shear-thickening fluid. A shear layer is positioned between the first and second outer layers. The first and second outer layers may include first and second sheets that are bonded to one another in bonded portions and not bonded to one another in non-bonded portions such that the channels are defined by the non-bonded portions. The bonded portions may be perforated to facilitate air flow. The shear layer includes a lattice structure such as a plurality of rods extending between the first and second outer layers and oriented at a non-perpendicular angle to the outer layers. The rods themselves may be filled with shear-thickening fluid. The channels in the outer layers are criss-crossed to form a lattice or network in the plane of the outer layers.