Composed Of More Than One Layer (epo) Patents (Class 89/904)
  • Publication number: 20120125187
    Abstract: An armor includes a core that, in turn, includes a first layer of prismatic elements arranged in a tessellated fashion and a second layer of prismatic elements arranged in a tessellated fashion. The armor further includes a smart component operably associated with a component of the armor. The first layer of prismatic elements is nested into the second layer of prismatic elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventor: David L. Hunn
  • Patent number: 8176831
    Abstract: An armor plate transforms projectile energy into solid-state lattice waves and facilitates absorption of these waves at different wavelengths. For high frequency lattice waves, dopants are used for absorbing the lattice waves and converting them to thermal energy. Heavy dopants and layered materials can also be use for reflecting lattice waves to facilitate attenuation through absorption. A spreading layer can also be used for dispersing non-absorbed lattice waves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignees: Nova Research, Inc., The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Yan R. Kucherov, Graham K. Hubler
  • Publication number: 20120103178
    Abstract: An armour (23, 39) for protecting an object from a projectile includes a layer of granulate salt (21, 26, 31, 51) at least partially surrounding the object. In an embodiment, the granulate material (21, 26, 31, 51) is Sodium Chloride (NaCl). Also disclosed is a combined armour plate (39), including a first layer of granulate material (31), wherein the granulate material is compressed with a pressure of at least 2 Atm; and a second layer of traditional armour (33), wherein the first layer (31) is located closer to the outside or impact side of the armour plate than the second layer (33). A method of forming an armour (23, 39) includes providing a granulate salt (21, 26, 31, 51) and pressing the granulate salt in a container (22, 25 30).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventor: Johannes Petrus Dijkman
  • Publication number: 20120103177
    Abstract: An assembly for armoring an amphibious vehicle against projectile penetrations, the amphibious vehicle having a hull, the assembly including a rigid spall generating sheet, the rigid spall generating sheet having a thickness and an outer surface; a buoyant sheet fixedly attached to and extending inwardly from the rigid spall generating sheet; and a multiplicity of fasteners interconnecting the rigid and buoyant sheets with the amphibious vehicle's hull, the buoyant sheet incorporating a low density, nonabsorbent hardened foam material; the buoyant sheet functioning for vehicle buoyancy enhancement and for defining a spall dispersal space overlying the hull and underlying the rigid spall generating sheet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventor: Michael D. Coltrane
  • Publication number: 20120090452
    Abstract: A ballistic panel provides protection from various munitions. The ballistic panel may be configured to conform to various contours and shapes. In this way, the ballistic panel may be used to create or replace traditional non-ballistic panels, such as those found in structures, vehicles, and device enclosures. The ballistic panel may comprise one or more layers of material including fiberglass, metal, mesh, ceramic, and natural and synthetic materials, among others. The ballistic panel may protect individuals, property, devices, and other assets from physical damage, electromagnetic radiation, and the like. The ballistic panel may be inexpensively constructed with low cost materials and manufacturing processes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventor: Ashok Em Sudhakar
  • Publication number: 20120090453
    Abstract: An armor uses optimally shaped ceramic cross-pellets and a matrix for containing the cross-pellets. The armor comprises front and back plates and an array of interlocking ceramic cross-pellets of repeating shape between front and back plates. Each cross-pellet may have a horizontal cross-section in the shape of a cross and comprises a center and four fingers projecting therefrom. Each cross-pellet in a non-peripheral portion of the array may be supported by fingers of other cross-pellets which may include two fingers from each of four other cross-pellets. The result is lightweight, composite hybrid structure. The dense, hard armor has good fracture toughness, hardness and a high capacity to absorb impacts for ballistic protection particularly suited to tactical ground vehicles. Valley spaced is minimized. A polymer resin may be situated in spaces between the ceramic cross-pellets and between the array and at least one of the back plate and front plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventor: Hananya Cohen
  • Publication number: 20120085223
    Abstract: A blast door (12; 14) comprises a panel (12a; 14a) and a frame provided around the perimeter of the panel. The frame comprises a plurality of frame members (12b, 12c, 12d; 14b, 14c, 14d). Each frame member has a cross section that includes a cavity (36, 40) in which the panel perimeter is received. This ensures that the frame encloses a perimeter portion of the panel on either side thereof. Securing means (47) are provided within the cavity of the frame, to secure the panel therein. A method of fabricating the blast door comprises providing the panel and the frame comprising the plurality of frame members, and securing the panel within the frame using securing means located within the cavity of the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Applicant: INGERSOLL RAND SECURITY TECHNOLOGIES
    Inventors: Kieran Kennedy, Christopher James Bolton, Chris Russon
  • Publication number: 20120073427
    Abstract: The present invention refers to an impact-resistant and penetration-resistant textile structure, to a method and to an apparatus for production thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: FRATELLI CITTERIO S.P.A.
    Inventor: Giorgio Celeste CITTERIO
  • Publication number: 20120060681
    Abstract: A flexible, multi-functional, multi-ply material mix and device, capable of providing ballistic protection are herein presented. The device and material herein presented provide multiple electronic and ballistic functionality integrated into a soft body armor that is lighter in weight and more comfortable to wear than previously available alternatives.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventor: Eric C. Hoenes
  • Publication number: 20120060676
    Abstract: A multilayer backing composite for armor plate systems. One embodiment provides a ceramic layer and a bonded multilayer backing layer bonded to the ceramic layer. The backing layer can be formed from at least two layers each of alternating elastomeric interstitial layers and UHMWPE layers having an areal density in the range of about 125 to 400 g/m2. The areal density of the stack can be in the range of about 4 to 15 lbs/ft2, and specifically about 6.98 lbs/ft2. In some embodiments, at least one of the at least two UHMWPE layers nearer to the ceramic layer of the stack can have a lower areal density than at least one layer further from the ceramic layer. The ceramic layer can be SiC and 0.280? thick; each rubber layer can be about 0.01?; and each UHMWPE layer can be about 0.15?.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2010
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: Alliant Techsystems Inc.
    Inventors: Julie A. KIDD, Michael E. Fuller
  • Publication number: 20120031259
    Abstract: A resource is protected by an armor structure comprising a magnetic field such that the magnetic field will interfere with a warhead blast to weaken the blast. In particular, magnetic field will interfere with a molten metal jet from a shaped charge to disperse the jet, allowing subsequent layers of armor to absorb the jet energy without penetration. In one embodiment, the magnetic field is produced by a layer of magnetic material magnetized with the field lines perpendicular to the primary threat direction and typically parallel to the surface of the area to be protected. The magnetic material layer may include ferromagnetic (iron or steel, or other) layers to strengthen and contain the magnetic field, protect the magnetic material and act as additional armor layers. The magnetic layer is typically used in conjunction with an inner shield armor layer to absorb the diffused jet after passing through the magnetic layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicant: Cedar Ridge Research LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Fullerton
  • Publication number: 20120031260
    Abstract: A reactive armor that may include multiple layers. The reactive armor may include a self-healing outer layer, a ceramic tile layer and a backing layer. The ceramic tile layer may include a plurality of ceramic tiles and explosive material. The ceramic tiles may be hexagonal. The ceramic tiles may each define a hollow space in which the explosive material is deposited. The reactive armor may be combined with non-reactive armor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventor: David Warren
  • Publication number: 20120024138
    Abstract: An armor panel having an impact face is provided. The armor panel includes at least one rigid absorbing layer and a high-tensile confining layer surrounding the at least one rigid absorbing layer. The at least one rigid absorbing layer can have a plurality of strip-shaped protection elements that are adhered to one another along a plane substantially orthogonal to the impact face. The at least one rigid absorbing layer can be formed of a glass-ceramic material having a coefficient of thermal expansion substantially equal to zero and that, upon impact by a projectile, converts to a dilatant power at least in an area of impact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventors: John Carberry, Katherine Leighton
  • Publication number: 20120024137
    Abstract: A composite useful in a ballistic resistant armor article comprises a first nonwoven layer comprising a first plurality of yarns the yarns comprising a first plurality of para-aramid filaments, the first plurality of yarns arranged parallel with each other and a second nonwoven layer comprising a second plurality of yarns comprising a second plurality of para-aramid filaments, the second plurality of yarns arranged parallel with each other. The first plurality of yarns of the first layer have an orientation in a direction that is different from the orientation of the second plurality of yarns in the second layer. The yarns have an elongation at break of 3.6 to 5.0 percent. The composite further comprises a thermoset or thermoplastic binding resin in the region of the interface between the two layers and a viscoelastic resin coating at least portions of external surfaces of the first and second pluralities of yarns.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: E. I. DU PONT DE NEMOURS AND COMPANY
    Inventor: MINSHON J. CHIOU
  • Publication number: 20120017754
    Abstract: An armor system for defeating a solid projectile having an exterior rigid armor plate associated with a fiber-reinforced sheet armor affixed to the interior surface of the exterior armor plate, an interior armor plate, and an inner armor plate displaced from one another to form a first dispersion space between the sheet of self-bonded polymer and the interior armor plate. The first dispersion space is sufficiently thick to allow significant lateral dispersion of armor passing therethrough. The inner armor plate is disposed approximately parallel to the interior armor plate and displaced therefrom to form a second dispersion space between the interior armor plate and the inner armor plate. The second dispersion space is sufficiently thick to allow significant lateral dispersion of materials passing therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Inventor: Vernon P. Joynt
  • Patent number: 8096224
    Abstract: The present invention's stratified composite material system of armor, as typically embodied, comprises a strike stratum and a backing stratum. The strike stratum includes elastomeric matrix material and inventive ceramic-inclusive elements embedded therein and arranged (e.g., in one or more rows and one or more columns) along a geometric plane corresponding to the front (initial strike) surface of the strike stratum. More rigid than the strike stratum, the backing stratum is constituted by, e.g., metallic (metal or metal alloy) material or fiber-reinforced polymeric matrix material. Some inventive embodiments also comprise a spall-containment stratum fronting the strike stratum. The inventive ceramic-inclusive elements geometrically describe any of various inventive modes, including: first mode, having a flat front face and a textured back face; second mode, having a pyramidal front section and a prismatoidal (especially, prismoidal, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Curtis A. Martin, Gilbert F. Lee, Jeffry J. Fedderly
  • Patent number: 8091464
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a protective armor system includes first and second armor layers separated by a gap. The second armor layer has a hardness that is less the first armor layer. The protective shield is configured to disperse energy of a shaped charge, such as the energy within a penetrator generated by an explosively formed penetrator (EFP).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Timothy J. Imholt, Alexander F. St. Claire, Michael L. Noland
  • Patent number: 8091465
    Abstract: According to the present invention there is provided an armor array for protecting a body to be protected from an incoming projectile having an anticipated impact direction. The armor array is constituted by at least a first and a second armor cassette, each comprising a top base plate and a bottom base plate sandwiching therebetween an expandable layer. The first and second armor cassettes are spaced apart by an intermediate depressible panel having a top and a bottom face, such that the bottom base plate of the first armor cassette faces the top face of the intermediate depressible panel and the top base plate of the second cassette faces the bottom face of the intermediate depressible panel. The armor array is constructed such that upon expansion of the expandable layer, caused by the impact of the incoming projectile, at least one of the bottom base plate of the first armor cassette and the top base plate of the second armor cassette is urged towards the intermediate depressible panel and depresses it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Plasan Sasa Ltd.
    Inventors: Moshe Ravid, Shlomo Birger, Amit Viesel
  • Publication number: 20120000352
    Abstract: A reactive armor that may include multiple layers. The reactive armor may include a self-healing outer layer, a ceramic tile layer and a backing layer. The ceramic tile layer may include a plurality of ceramic tiles and explosive material. The ceramic tiles may be hexagonal. The ceramic tiles may each define a hollow space in which the explosive material is deposited. The reactive armor may be combined with non-reactive armor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Inventor: David H. Warren
  • Patent number: 8087339
    Abstract: An armor system and method for the interior of a structure to be protected wherein releasable fastener material is secured to an inside wall of the structure and at least a first armor panel includes, in one example, a spacer layer, a ceramic hard face layer behind the spacer layer, a ballistic material behind the ceramic energy absorber layer, an encapsulant about the spacer layer, the ceramic energy absorber layer, and the ballistic material. Releasable fastener material is on the encapsulant adjacent the spacer layer for mating the panel to the inside wall of the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Foster-Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Mann, Denise Mahnken, Michael E. McCormack, II, Martin Edward Smirlock, Ronald E. Lundin, Michael Coltrane, Rick Scheer, Robert C. Sykes
  • Publication number: 20110314998
    Abstract: Methods and systems for an armor system are provided. The system includes a first face sheet and a shaped preform extending from the first face sheet. The preform includes a first edge proximate the first face sheet, a sidewall extending from the first edge to a flange extending substantially perpendicularly from the sidewall. The preform circumscribes an area of the first face sheet. The system also includes a tile of armor material complementarily-shaped to fit within the area circumscribed by the preform. The tile is positioned within the preform such that at least a portion of the tile is between the first face sheet and the flange. The system includes a second face sheet covering the preform and the tile on a side opposite from the first face sheet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Inventor: Roger W. Engelbart
  • Publication number: 20110308380
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a protective armor system includes first and second armor layers separated by a gap. The second armor layer has a hardness that is less the first armor layer. The protective shield is configured to disperse energy of a shaped charge, such as the energy within a penetrator generated by an explosively formed penetrator (EFP).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventors: Timothy J. Imholt, Alexander F. St. Claire, Michael L. Noland
  • Publication number: 20110308379
    Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a protective armor system may include a first armor layer. The protective armor system may also include a plate that is detachably coupled to the first armor layer. The protective armor system may also have a second armor layer that is separated from the plate by a gap. When the plate is struck by a projectile, it may be operable to increase the surface area of the tip of the projectile as the projectile accelerates the plate through the gap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2008
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventors: Timothy J. Imholt, Alexander F. St. Claire, Michael L. Noland
  • Publication number: 20110303079
    Abstract: An armor system for defeating a solid projectile having a first armor plate, an interior armor plate, and an inner armor plate displaced from one another to form a first dispersion space between the first armor plate and the interior armor plate. The first dispersion space is sufficiently thick to allow significant lateral dispersion of armor passing therethrough. The inner armor plate is disposed approximately parallel to the interior armor plate and displaced therefrom to form a second dispersion space between the interior armor plate and the inner armor plate. The second dispersion space is sufficiently thick to allow significant lateral dispersion of materials passing therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Inventor: Vernon P. Joynt
  • Patent number: 8074552
    Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a protective armor system may include a first armor layer. The protective armor system may also include a plate that is detachably coupled to the first armor layer. The protective armor system may also have a second armor layer that is separated from the plate by a gap. When the plate is struck by a projectile, it may be operable to increase the surface area of the tip of the projectile as the projectile accelerates the plate through the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Timothy J. Imholt, Alexander F. St. Claire, Michael L. Noland
  • Publication number: 20110296979
    Abstract: An assembly useful for constructing concealable, flexible, lightweight protective body armor includes a flexible support layer to which is bonded a mosaic of rigid, adjacent tiles having a high bending performance, such as type 5 titanium alloy, which includes 6% aluminum and 4% vanadium by weight. The inner support layer can include woven para-aramid and/or STF-treated Kevlar™. The tiles can have interlocking and/or thickened edges. An additional backing layer can include para-aramid and/or carbon nanofiber embedded UHMWPE UD-laminate. An inner layer can have high moisture transport, anti-microbial properties, and low friction. An outer layer can be shaped with anatomical features to hide the armor. The assembly can be flame resistant. Assemblies with 2 mm thick tiles and total thickness less than 5 mm can provide V50 protection against 9 mm FMJ projectiles at more than 1000 feet/second, and can also protect against knife and spike assaults at 65 Joules force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: WARWICK MILLS, INC.
    Inventor: Charles A. Howland
  • Publication number: 20110290104
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing protection from ballistic rounds, projectiles, fragments and explosives. The apparatus includes a core, grinding layer and bonding layer. The core is shaped and configured as a structural truss of the apparatus, in which the core includes a plurality of parallel, adjacent rows and the core distributes and dissipates force impacting on the apparatus. The grinding layer is positioned on at least one side of the core facing towards potential threats, in which the grinding layer grinds rounds, projectiles, fragments or other materials impacting the apparatus, helping to dissipate the impacting material and its momentum. The bonding layer bonds the grinding layer together and the grinding layer to the core and provides an outer coating to the apparatus on a side of the apparatus facing potential threats and through which rounds, projectiles, fragments or other materials impact and penetrate the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: David H. Warren
  • Patent number: 8065946
    Abstract: A composite armor element for protection against projectiles. At least one layer of effective bodies is disposed in rows next to one another in the composite armor element, the effective bodies being embedded in a matrix material. The effective bodies of one row are fixedly interconnected at least partially by means of webs to form a chain which is a monolithic element. An effective body element for insertion in a composite armor element comprises at least two effective bodies fixedly interconnected by at least one web to form a chain. The effective body element is a monolithic element, and a plurality of effective body elements are embedded in a matrix material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Krauss-Maffei Wegmann GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Jürgen Weber, Robert Bayer, Norbert Keil, Stefan Schiele
  • Publication number: 20110283873
    Abstract: Structures based upon periodic cellular materials that provide a potential for defeating combinations of both air blast loading and ballistic attack either sequentially or simultaneously, or combination of both. The cellular structures may also be configured to meet the stiffness and strength support requirements of particular vehicle or other applications, systems or structures. The armor is therefore potentially able to support normal service loads and defeat blast and ballistic threats when necessary. The structure provides for using efficient load support capabilities of the material (without a high armor protection level) in low threat conditions, as well as the ability to modify the system to increase its level protection to a desired or required level. This would reduce the weight of the protection system in normal (low threat) conditions which reduces vehicle wear and tear, as well as cost savings in fabrication of applicable structures or systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Applicants: UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA PATENT FOUNDATION, DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY, CELLULAR MATERIALS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Haydn N.G. Wadley, Yellapu V. Murty, Tyrone Jones, Rahul Gupta, Matthew Burkins
  • Publication number: 20110277621
    Abstract: In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a system for protecting a vehicle from a mine. Upon detonation the mine may yield ejecta having an expected trajectory. The system has a first layer of material disposed outside of an underbody of a hull of the vehicle. The first layer includes a base disposed in a direction substantially parallel to the underbody and a protrusion that narrows as it extends away from the base in a direction opposing the expected ejecta trajectory. The system also has a second layer including a material having a shock wave transmission velocity that is higher than a shock wave transmission velocity of the material of the first layer. The system further has an exterior layer substantially covering the first and second layers, and the exterior layer has an exterior surface that faces away from the underbody and toward the expected ejecta trajectory.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventor: Vernon P. JOYNT
  • Publication number: 20110271825
    Abstract: A non-lethal, sabot-deployed blast shield mitigates a suicide bomber by wrapping around the bomber and positioning a plurality of protective layers over an explosive device to absorb emitted heat, shock waves, and projectiles if the device is detonated. Stand-offs such as inflatable beams or pillows provide break-away zones between the protective layers, allowing some layers to expand to a point of failure and absorb the maximum possible energy. Inner layers absorb shock waves and heat. One or more outer layers resist projectile penetration. Protective layers can be positioned on opposing sides of a suspect in case two explosive devices are present. Shields can deploy with sufficient energy to knock down a bomber. In embodiments, a plurality of shields can be applied without interference therebetween. In some embodiments, a round shield includes bolas which spread the shield in flight in a cast-net dynamic and wrap around the suspect for shield attachment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: WARWICK MILLS, INC.
    Inventor: Charles A. Howland
  • Publication number: 20110271824
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for ballistic shielding and protective armor; and more particularly, representative and exemplary embodiments of the present invention generally relate to improved methods and systems for ballistic deflection and protection through dynamic armor and/or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Gary F. Wahlquist
  • Publication number: 20110259186
    Abstract: Ballistic collar comprising a bellows shaped member (1) which is arranged to surround a human's neck, comprising bellows plies (2, 3) being mainly perpendicular to the axis of the collar or of the human's neck. Free standing, the structure stands up around the neck to provide ballistic protection. The structure may be formed by folding a sheet of ballistic rated body armor fabric comprising strong synthetic fibers, e.g. from aromatic polyamide fibers, or ultra high molecular weight polyolefin, e.g. polyethylene polypropylene, fibers. For manufacturing the ballistic collar a plurality of sheets may be piled-up and the whole may be submitted to transformation in a mold (5, 6) at a temperature and pressure at which the sheets remain mainly loose from each other. Preferably parts of the collars or bellows shaped members are made, which are assembled afterwards e.g. by stitching, welding etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Applicant: Nederlandse Organisatie voor toegepast-natuurwet onderzoek TNO
    Inventor: Pim Rensink
  • Publication number: 20110259184
    Abstract: A lightweight armor system according to the present invention includes one or more material layers having a fraction of void volume and at least one of those material layers having holes of various sizes and designs integrated therein. The material layers are infiltrated with liquid metal which solidifies within the materials open porosity to bind the layers together to create a coherent integral structure. The holes may be in the form of tubes which are impervious to metal infiltration and reduce the weight of the armor system while contributing to projectile deflection. A process for producing a lightweight armor system is disclosed which comprises the steps of 1.) forming holes in a preform containment layer 2.) positioning sealed tubes in the formed holes so that the tubes run through the thickness of the preform 3.) positioning at least one preform w/ sealed tubes within a mold chamber of a closed mold and 4.) infiltrating the mold with a liquid metal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventors: Richard W. Adams, James P. Sorensen
  • Patent number: 8037804
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for ballistic shielding and protective armor; and more particularly, representative and exemplary embodiments of the present invention generally relate to improved methods and systems for ballistic deflection and protection through dynamic armor and/or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Gary F. Wahlquist
  • Patent number: 8037803
    Abstract: This invention is a novel system for blast protection. It consists of lightweight, sectional or continuous barriers made of a novel blast resistant fiber reinforced polymer resin matrix composite, which may be fabricated on site. The barriers are lightweight and thin enough that they may be used in many spaces where barriers made from conventional construction materials are impossible, impractical, or undesirable. The novel barriers of this invention have the additional advantage of allowing for aesthetically appealing and architecturally harmonious designs. In order to minimize weight, the barriers may be designed such that the cross section varies with height, providing adequate resistance in areas of high blast loading, but allowing for thinner cross sections in regions of lowering load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Friedman Research Corporation
    Inventors: Keith Friedman, D. Erich Weerth
  • Publication number: 20110247481
    Abstract: The invention relates to a composite armor comprising multiple isolated reactive charges in various shapes and in various configurations. Charges are reacted and dynamically pressurize ceramic elements to reinforce the armor and to disrupt the projectile penetration process. In one embodiment of the present invention an armor comprising a multitude of high tensile strength enclosures are arranged in a closely packed pattern. A ceramic element is disposed in each individual enclosure; a thin inter-layer of explosive material is disposed between the ceramic element and the enclosure's strike face. In a ballistic event, the explosive is set off by an incoming projectile and the ceramic element is thus pressurized and reinforced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Inventor: Gigi Simovich
  • Publication number: 20110239849
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for defeating high-velocity projectiles. A plurality of disks of equal size comprised of fiber induced ceramic composites are provided. The disks are laid out in an imbricated pattern row by row such that each disk in a row is in substantially a straight line with the other disks in the row and overlaps a segment of a disk in an adjacent row. The imbricated pattern is then adhered to a flexible, high tensile strength substrate and overlaid by a second high tensile strength layer such that the imbricated pattern is enveloped between the substrate and the second layer. The envelope is then coupled to a soft body armor backing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2004
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventors: Murray L. Neal, Allan D. Bain
  • Publication number: 20110239851
    Abstract: One or more embodiments contained herein disclose a structural insulated panel having improved ballistics properties and methods for using the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventors: Jeff Mason, Patrick Redfern, Robert Doherty
  • Publication number: 20110232470
    Abstract: Method of producing a shell-proof and bullet-proof structure comprising a first internal layer having a high resistance against the impact of a shell or a bullet, and at least a second external pierceable layer having a relatively low melting temperature allowing it to melt when hit by the shell or bullet for retaining the latter and avoiding the rebound thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventor: Cosimo Cioffi
  • Publication number: 20110226122
    Abstract: An improved transparent armor piercing protection system that acts as a vision window in an armor system. The transparent armor piercing protection system comprises ballistic plastic prisms with mirrored external surfaces disposed between armor plates so that the reflection of the image occurs entirely within the prism. The armor sheets are also redesigned with perforations to reduce weight while defeating incoming threats.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventors: Peter R. Ciriscioli, James R. Turner, Matthew G. Riddle, Brendan P. Croom, Daniel J. Richard, John C. Turn, JR.
  • Publication number: 20110214560
    Abstract: A ceramic amour plate (1,41,50,70) having auxetic reinforcement (2,40,51,71). The auxetic reinforcement may be provided utilising auxetic fibres, auxetic knits or weaves, or lay-ups exhibiting auxetic behaviour. The auxetic reinforcement reduces cracking of the ceramic plate to improve multi-hit performance. The reinforcement may be provided as a layer (2,40, 51) bonded to the surface of the ceramic plate (1,41,50) or as an integral part (71) of the ceramic plate (70).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2009
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Applicant: GLOBAL COMPOSITES GROUP LIMITED
    Inventor: David Skertchly
  • Publication number: 20110214559
    Abstract: A ballistic panel is described that comprises a ballistic-resistant component and a cover that comprises a laminate comprising (i) a substrate layer and (ii) an inner bonding layer. The cover is bonded to at least one surface of the ballistic-resistant component by the inner bonding layer of the laminate, and is bonded around the perimeter of the ballistic resistant component to form a perimeter seal. A method for making the ballistic panel is also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventors: Steven Michael Lampo, Andrea Biro
  • Publication number: 20110209604
    Abstract: A composite armor panels is comprised of a first layer, composed of a matrix of an elastomeric material and a crushed aggregate material, and a second backing layer. One or more geogrids can be included in the first layer of the armor panel to prevent the aggregate material from moving within the first layer. A method of making a composite armor panel includes exposing a mixture of elastomeric material and crushed aggregate material to elevated temperatures and pressures for predetermined time periods, such that a matrix of elastomeric material and crushed aggregate material is formed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2010
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE RESEARCH FOUNDATION, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas D. Rockaway, Gerold A. Willing
  • Publication number: 20110209605
    Abstract: A portable protection system including a selectively collapsible truss for supporting a protection member. The truss is movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position. The protection member includes at least one layer of ballistic armor material for disrupting a projectile. The truss includes suitable connectors for releasably connecting the protection member to the truss, and also suitable connectors for releasably connecting the truss to an adjoining truss so as to form a protection wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Applicant: DYNAMIC DEFENSE MATERIALS LLC
    Inventors: John Carberry, George Forsythe, Harvey Kliman, Katherine Leighton, John Garnier, Ray Ballario, Wiktor Serafin, Jason Ickes
  • Publication number: 20110197745
    Abstract: A method for making armor plate that is resistant to armor piercing small arms ammunition is provided. The armor plate includes a steel plate having a nominal chemical composition in weight percent of 0.4C-1.8Ni-0.8Cr-0.25Mo. The steel plate is carburized on one side and produces a carburized side and a non-carburized side. The carburized side of the steel plate has a carbon concentration of at least 0.9% by weight and the non-carburized side has a carbon concentration of between 0.38 and 0.45% by weight. After the steel plate has been carburized, it is subsequently thermally processed such that the carburized side has a hardness of at least 58 Rockwell Hardness C (HRC), and the non-carburized side has a hardness of between >=50 and <=55 HRC.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Inventor: Jay Carl Locke
  • Patent number: 7997181
    Abstract: A multi-layer ballistic or armor panel system includes a hard component strike layer that is a continuous planar assembly of tile elements, the planar assembly having a strike surface and a rear surface. Seams between the tile elements are substantially non-perpendicular to the strike surface, thereby tending to deflect incoming projectiles. Grooves may be formed in one or more of the strike surface and the rear surface of the tile elements to provide a preferential weakness. The armor panel system may also include a reinforcing layer on at least one of the strike surface and the rear surface. A backing layer may be provided after the rear surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Hardwire, LLC
    Inventors: George C. Tunis, Scott Kendall, Stephen L. Kinnebrew
  • Publication number: 20110192274
    Abstract: The multi-layered ballistics armor includes one or more containment layers covering at least a portion of an impact absorbing layer formed of a fragmenting material to minimize and contain fragmentation of the impact absorbing layer. The one or more containment layers may include one or more primary containment envelopes, and the fragmenting material may be a ceramic such as silicon carbide, carbon/carbon composites, carbon/carbon/silicon carbide composites, boron carbide, aluminum oxide, silicon carbide particulate/aluminum metal matrix composites, or combinations thereof. The multi-layered armor may include one or more adhesive layers over the impact absorbing layer, one or more composite backing layers, an energy absorbing layer, and a flame resistant layer. A secondary containment envelope can be provided over the one or more primary containment envelopes, composite backing layers, and energy absorbing layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2010
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL COMPOSITES TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Richard L. Fingerhut
  • Publication number: 20110185884
    Abstract: A bullet-resistant transparent laminate composite (10) has at least two plates (12) arranged one behind the other and at a spacing relative to each other in the direction of threat and comprising a transparent first material with a modulus of elasticity of at least about 1,500 N/mm2, and a respective intermediate layer (14) of a transparent second material with a lower modulus of elasticity than that of the first material between two adjacent plates (12). The layer thicknesses of the plates (12) and the intermediate layer or layers (14) are so selected that the overall layer structure of the layer composite (10) of plates and intermediate layer or layers has a modulus of elasticity which is at least about 10% lower in comparison with a block made exclusively from the first material and of the same overall thickness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: ESW GMBH
    Inventors: Thomas Krüger, Denni Hinrichsen, Jan Hampel, Roger Schäfer
  • Publication number: 20110174147
    Abstract: The invention relates to a material sheet comprising a woven fabric of polymer tapes, wherein the width of a tape varies less than 2% on average in the longitudinal direction of the tape. The invention also relates to a process for the preparation of the material sheet, and to a ballistic resistant article comprising the material sheet. A ballistic resistant article comprising the material sheet exhibits excellent antiballistic properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventors: Reinard Jozef Maria Steeman, Marcel M. Jongedijk, Johann J. Van Elburg