Shields (epo) Patents (Class 89/918)
  • Patent number: 9010228
    Abstract: An assembly for use in a shield includes a protective panel, protective panel securing hardware and an adjustable mount. The protective panel is ballistic-resistant and/or blast resistant. The protective panel securing hardware secures the protective panel to the adjustable mount and to extend in an upwards direction from the adjustable mount. The adjustable mount is structured and sized to be securable on top of shield bases having a plurality of alternative geometries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Defenshield, Inc.
    Inventors: W. Collins White, John Kleniatis, Matthew McAllister
  • Patent number: 8978535
    Abstract: Articulating protective systems for resisting mechanical loads and related methods are generally described. The protective structures described herein can incorporate one or more features that enhance the ability of the structure to resist an applied force while remaining sufficiently flexible to allow for movement of the object or person the structure is designed to protect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Christine Ortiz, Mary C. Boyce, Juha Song, Steffen H. Reichert
  • Patent number: 8931392
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a protection device (10) for protection against so called RSV-grenades comprising a grid configuration (20) with at least one profile element arranged to affect the electric detonation release arrangement (52) of such a grenade (50) by means of short-circuiting, characterized in that said at least one profile element (30; 30a; 30b; 30c; 30d; 30e; 30f) has a cross section being tapering in the principal incoming direction of the grenade. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: BAE Systems Hägglunds Aktiebolag
    Inventors: Gösta Svensson, Pekka Silvola
  • Patent number: 8930066
    Abstract: A customizable apparatus for controlling rotational movement of a turret of a vehicle is provided. The apparatus includes a memory that stores information relating to operation of the turret. A communication port of the apparatus is adapted to exchange communications relating to operation of the turret with an external computing device. A controller processes communications received at the communication port from the external computing device. The controller processes the communications, and the controller selectively provides access to the stored information relating to operation of the turret to the external computing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Control Solutions LLC
    Inventors: Michael A. McKee, John E. Hayden
  • Patent number: 8857309
    Abstract: A device and a method for protecting objects against rocket-propelled grenades having a hollow nose cone includes a netting of knotted and coated superstrong fibers disposed in front of the object, in such a manner that the nose cone of a rocket caught in the netting will penetrate one of the meshes of the netting and be deformed through strangulation, thereby disabling the detonator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: Cyril Maurice Wentzel
  • Patent number: 8826795
    Abstract: A structure for protecting vehicle occupants from blasts beneath a vehicle, the structure having a mechanism for mitigating vehicle hop caused by the blasts. The structure comprises a rigid V shaped hull section of the vehicle located on an underside thereof. The V shaped hull section has an oblique body panel facing outboard and downward relative to the vehicle. The structure also has a wall panel disposed adjacently above and along the oblique body panel and a border defined by a juncture of the oblique body panel and the wall panel. A flat, blade-like blast deflector vane is located proximally along the border and is positioned outboard of both the oblique body panel and the wall panel. The vane is disposed at an acute angle with the oblique body panel and is solidly attached to the V shaped hull section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: James A. Capouellez
  • Patent number: 8783156
    Abstract: An ordinance, such as a rocket propelled grenade, shield includes a net with hard points at select nodes of the net and cable guides on the side of the net. Cables under tension extend through the cable guides supporting the net typically in conjunction with a top cross bar, spaced top struts, and spaced bottom struts. This framis design facilitates entering and exiting the vehicle or structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Foster-Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Vincent Malone, Nicole Jean Baird, Scott Robert Albin, Robert G. Holmes, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8770085
    Abstract: An apparatus, method and system to enhance the performance of composite armor by utilizing the energy of the threat projectile is disclosed. The frontal member includes, for example, a plurality of concentric proves on the face opposite of the surface that is impacted by a projectile. The grooves in the frontal member preferably may mate with a complimentary plurality of concentric grooves in a backing plate. During impact by a projectile, the force from the projectile presses the grooves of the frontal member into engagement with the grooves of the backing plate. The grooves are uniquely designed to cause the backing plate to impart a compressive load into the backside of the frontal member preventing it from prematurely fracturing in tension at the onset of the projectile penetration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: General Dynamics Land Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven L. Sanborn, Lee Smathers, Wayne Burke
  • Patent number: 8757041
    Abstract: A tubular armor causes incoming projectiles to strike at a forty-five degree angle that induces vector alteration of the projectile upon impact. Its movement magnitude is reduced in force vector, momentum, and thus its kinetic energy. At least two facing layers of parallel tubes have a rectangular cross-section and are of a high ballistic material. The tubes are contiguously, fixedly disposed with respect to each other at outer opposed diagonal tube corners to form crests and valleys on opposed outer sides of each layer. The spaced layers have valleys of a front layer disposed over the crests of a back layer. Layer spacing is at an amount sufficient whereby when a projectile strikes the front layer facing a shooter, it compresses toward the back layer and transfers its kinetic energy laterally to follow a zig-zag path along the front layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Inventor: Steven D. Gillen
  • Patent number: 8746121
    Abstract: The subject-matter of the invention is a ballistic protection grid for a vehicle comprising an access hatch received in an opening of the grid, wherein the grid and the hatch comprise bars separated from each other by an inter-bar distance, the protection grid being characterized in that the access hatch partially conceals the opening of the grid, each edge of the opening of the grid being separated from the sides of the hatch by a distance substantially equal to the inter-bar distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Nexter Systems
    Inventor: Alain Hubsch
  • Patent number: 8733225
    Abstract: A vehicle and structure shield includes an array of hard points laterally spaced and outwardly supported, in one example, by a net subsystem and frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: QinteiQ Nörth America, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Farinella, Robert Lee Cardenas, William R. Lawson, Brendan LaBrecque, Frances Rush, David Hoadley, Michael Wheaton, Mike Anderson, Thomas Mann, Abed Kanaan, Patrick Callahan
  • Patent number: 8701544
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to the initial construction of furniture having bullet-proof and/or bullet-resistant properties, and methods for manufacturing furniture providing ballistic defense shielding using soft armor and hard armor material components. Soft armor and hard armor require an area of flexibility or expansion to work effectively when struck by a projectile. If these materials are completely restricted their effectiveness is diminished. With the unique design of this application both the soft armor and hard armor are affixed to the interior and/or exterior surfaces of furniture allowing the flexibility or expansion required for maximum protection. The unique design may also be applied to retro-fit panels and/or frames comprising soft armor or hard armor material components to be attached to the exterior and/or interior surfaces of existing furniture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Peters Security International, Inc.
    Inventors: Fred E. Peters, Jens Wemhoener
  • Patent number: 8671820
    Abstract: A soft ballistic shield comprises a shell adapted to support at least one soft ballistic panel made from a soft ballistic material suitable for protecting a user from bodily injury from projectiles. At least one generally horizontal support is adapted to be coupled to the shell in a deployed configuration. First and second generally vertical supports are adapted to be coupled to the shell in a deployed configuration. The first and second generally vertical pockets cover a majority of the first and second generally vertical supports when housing the first and second generally vertical supports in a deployed configuration to provide a support structure for the soft ballistic shield to absorb energy from an impact of a projectile. A retainer cap is coupled to the shield and configured to be positioned over an end of the at least one elongate generally horizontal support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Inventors: Kent Keyfauver, Felix Colon
  • Patent number: 8656821
    Abstract: A threat resistant access port is disclosed, including a resistant panel having an access aperture formed therein. A resistant cover is movably coupled to the panel, the cover being pivotally slideable relative to the panel so as to cover the aperture in a closed position and to uncover the aperture in an open position. The resistant cover comprises an outer member, the outer member being threat resistant and located proximate an outer side of the panel. The resistant cover further comprises an inner member, the inner member coupled to the outer member and located proximate an inner side of the panel opposite the outer side of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Defenshield, Inc.
    Inventors: William Collins White, John Kleniatis, Matthew McAllister
  • Patent number: 8640593
    Abstract: A damping suspension for an add-on armor system of an ACV (Armored Combat Vehicle), comprises mounting means for mounting said add-on armor system to an ACV; and damping means coupled to said mounting means and to said add-on armor system's armor means, in order to damp vibrations and restrain shocks unto which said armor means might be exposed as an outcome of said ACV's travel; and wherein said damping suspension is characterized by that said damping suspension includes a device of the ‘wire rope isolator’ type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd.
    Inventor: Gil Hazan
  • Patent number: 8607685
    Abstract: A shield system for an ordnance includes a frame and a flexible net subsystem supported by the frame. Diagonal lines of net material intersect at nodes forming diamond shaped mesh openings and a hard point is attached to at least select nodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: QinetiQ North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Farinella, William Lawson, Scott Quigley, Robert Curran
  • Patent number: 8596183
    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: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Leading Technology Composites, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael D. Coltrane
  • Patent number: 8590437
    Abstract: An assembly for protecting against explosions and explosive devices is formed with aerogels and frangible components. The basic configuration forms a space between an object to be protected by an aerogel having a frangible backing layer. Such assemblies may be mounted on vehicles and structures, and alternatively used as barriers without attachment to other objects. Different geometries for the rear surface of the assemblies enhance the ability of deflecting gas produced by explosions away from objects to be protected. Flowable attenuating media may be introduced into the space behind the aerogel and in gratings placed in the front of assemblies in order to increase blast energy dissipation in intense blast conditions. Armor components may be added to the rear surface to protect against fragments and projectiles. Aerogels, metal foams, and dense ceramic beads may be incorporated to enhance protection against explosively-formed penetrators and other projectiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Guy Leath Gettle
  • Patent number: 8573125
    Abstract: A relatively lightweight, modular, blast control system utilizes a plurality of fabric panels that may be joined to form a matrix or blanket to protect or control the blast. The panels are preferably made from layers of auxetic woven fabric, with each successive fabric layer oriented between 0-90 degrees from the previous layer. The panels may be connected together via a locking mechanism or assembly comprising a cable which runs the length of the perimeter of each fabric panel, and a torque pin rotated about two adjoining cables to form an interlocking connection. The panels connected in this manner form the fully assembled blast control blanket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventors: Richard Rossow, Cheri McConnell, Vikas Verma
  • Patent number: 8555769
    Abstract: An offset ballistic protection device protecting a wall provided with a hatch (200), wherein said device comprises at least a first grid (1) offset with respect to the wall and comprising a first series of bars (1a) parallel to each other and substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis (400) of a hinge (300) of the hatch (200). This ballistic protection device (101) comprises a second grid (2) offset with respect to the hatch (200) and comprising a second series of bars (2a) substantially parallel to the first series of bars (1a), wherein the second grid (2) is positioned with respect to the first grid (1) so that the bars (2a) thereof are spatially offset in the plane of the second grid (2) with respect to the bars (1a) of the first grid (1), wherein the bars (2a) of the second grid (2) are therefore able to pass between the bars (1a) of the first grid (1) during pivoting of the leaf (200).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Nexter Systems
    Inventors: Alain Hubsch, Daniel Baptista, Christian Prybilski, Bernard Denis
  • Patent number: 8539873
    Abstract: A standoff protection device intended to fully cover a door and incorporating at least one mobile panel hinged on hinges having an axis of rotation parallel to an axis of rotation of the door. The device incorporates at least one connecting rod linked to the door by a first pivot and to the mobile panel by a second pivot. The orthogonal projection of the axis of the second pivot in the plane of the door is located between the first pivot and the orthogonal projection in the plane of the door of the axis of the hinges of the mobile panel. The device incorporating a fixed standoff protective panel integral with the door. The fixed panel includes a first lateral edge extending beyond an external edge of the door parallel to its axis of rotation, and a second lateral edge contiguous with the mobile panel when the door is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Nexter Systems
    Inventors: Ulric Gonard, François-Xavier Querry
  • Patent number: 8516942
    Abstract: An extensible protection system, comprises a frame that can be deployed around a central tube of longitudinal axis, comprising two ends, a frame covering fabric, the frame having at least two pairs of rigid tubes, two rigid tubes of one pair, in a respective axial plane passing through the longitudinal axis, being articulated by one of their ends to a respective yoke, of which yokes one is secured to one of the ends of the central tube, and the other is secured to the other end of said central tube, the other free ends of the rigid tubes being able to move in the axial plane of the pair, one semirigid tube per pair of rigid tubes, in said axial plane of the pair, comprising at each of its ends a piston, each piston of a semirigid tube being able to slide fluidtightly in each one of the rigid tubes of the pair in order to form a pressurizing chamber in each of the rigid tubes, the protection system further comprising a device for pressurizing the chambers of the rigid tubes in order to cause the pistons to mov
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: TDA Armements S.A.S.
    Inventors: Thierry Bouet, Didier Larousse, Gilles Boucheron
  • Patent number: 8468927
    Abstract: An ordinance, such as a rocket propelled grenade, shield includes a net with hard points at select nodes of the net and cable guides on the side of the net. Cables under tension extend through the cable guides supporting the net typically in conjunction with a top cross bar, spaced top struts, and spaced bottom struts. This framis design facilitates entering and exiting the vehicle or structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: QinetiQ North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Vincent Malone, Nicole Jean Baird, Scott Robert Albin, Robert G. Holmes, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8464627
    Abstract: A protection system includes a net made of flexible, low breaking strength intersecting lines connected at nodes. A frame supports the net and spaces the net from a vehicle and/or structure. Hard points are disposed at least at select net nodes and feature a multi-sided body with a cavity therein behind a front face thereof. The body includes a lip extending into the cavity. A protrusion extends outwardly from the front face. A tapered plug is received in the cavity and includes a ledge engaged by the lip locking the plug and a net node in the cavity and securing the hard point to the net node in a pivotable fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: QinetiQ North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Farinella, William Lawson, Scott Quigley, Robert Curran
  • Patent number: 8453552
    Abstract: A method of designing an RPG. A computerized model is created of a shield mesh opening with lines of a net intersecting at nodes and with hard points positioned at least at select nodes. The effectiveness of the mesh opening at a plurality of obliquity angles is determined. In the model, a change is made to the size of the mesh opening and the effectiveness is determined again at a plurality of different obliquity angles. Iterations of this process allow an optimal mesh opening size to be determined for a threat such as an RPG.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: QinetiQ North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Farinella, William Lawson, Scott Quigley, Robert Curran
  • Patent number: 8443709
    Abstract: A vehicle and structure shield hard point includes a forward facing base portion defined by a front face, sidewalls extending rearward from the front face including slots therethrough for the cords of a net, and a cavity surrounded by the sidewalls. A plug is sized to be frictionally received in the cavity of the forward facing base portion locking the cords of the net with respect to the forward facing base portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Qinetiq North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Farinella, Robert Lee Cardenas, William R. Lawson, Brendan LaBrecque, Frances Rush, David Hoadley, Michael Wheaton, Mike Anderson, Thomas Mann, Abed Kanaan, Patrick Callahan
  • Publication number: 20130098234
    Abstract: A ballistic protection apparatus that is lightweight and easy to operate, while at the same time maintaining the integrity of protection of the shield throughout the entire shield is provided. The technology described herein also incorporates a dual function “quick release/spreader” assembly device. The shield user can cradle the weight of the shield in the crook of the elbow region of the support inner arm, which provides exceptional stabilization when there is no time available to hook up the ballistic shield to the wearer's tactical attire. The technology described in this specification also provides a tapered platform device that provides a self-aligning weapon indexing cradle allowing the shield user to accurately return the weapon's aimed impact point back on target following inherent up and down and side to side shaking movements of a recoiling weapon during the firing process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER BALLISTICS, LLC
    Inventor: Richard A. ARMELLINO, JR.
  • Publication number: 20130087038
    Abstract: A capacitive reactive armor assembly for shielding a vehicle is disclosed herein. The capacitive reactive armor includes, but is not limited to, a first flyer plate, a second flyer plate, and a capacitor positioned between the first flyer plate and the second flyer plate. The capacitor is configured to store an electric charge and to explosively short circuit when the capacitor is penetrated while the capacitor is electrically charged. The explosive release of energy from the capacitor pushes the first and second flyer plates apart interfering with the penetration of a shaped charge jet or ballistic penetrator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Applicant: GENERAL DYNAMICS ARMAMENT AND TECHNICAL PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Matthew D. Diehl
  • Patent number: 8402878
    Abstract: An axle assembly of a vehicle includes a side plate, a wheel end assembly, and a lower control arm. The side plate is part of a support structure of the vehicle, and the lower control arm extends between the side plate and the wheel end assembly. A spring member and a damper are each connected between the lower control arm and the side plate. The axle assembly further includes a shield fixed to the lower control arm, where the shield is designed to at least partially protect the vehicle from an explosive blast originating below the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Oshkosh Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew A. Schreiner, Steven R. Roehl, David J. Pelko
  • Publication number: 20130068878
    Abstract: The system includes a coating for a reservoir, the coating being configured to self-heal following a penetration by a projectile through the coating and the reservoir. The coating is an elastomeric polymer coating having sufficient elasticity to so as return to the coating to an approximate original shape after the projectile has passed through the coating. Further, the coating is configured to hold the reservoir together following severe damage from the projectile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Applicant: BELL HELICOPTER TEXTRON INC.
    Inventor: Darrell Liardon
  • Patent number: 8397619
    Abstract: An armor panel comprising an armor member made of a laminated material, having a predetermined ballistic capability and a first flexural strength. The armor panel has a covering layer having a second flexural strength essentially lower than the first flexural strength. The covering layer is bonded to the armor member. The layer is made of a fiber reinforced material such that overall flexural strength of the armor panel is greater than twice the first structural strength. The overall ballistic capability of the armor panel is at least the same as that of the predetermined ballistic capability of the armor member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Plasan Sasa Ltd.
    Inventors: Shmuel Genihovich, Mark Pak
  • Patent number: 8397618
    Abstract: A threat resistant access port is disclosed, including a resistant panel having an access aperture formed therein. A resistant cover is movably coupled to the panel, the cover being pivotally slideable relative to the panel so as to cover the aperture in a closed position and to uncover the aperture in an open position. The resistant cover comprises an outer member, the outer member being threat resistant and located proximate an outer side of the panel. The resistant cover further comprises an inner member, the inner member coupled to the outer member and located proximate an inner side of the panel opposite the outer side of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Defenshield, Inc.
    Inventors: W. Collins White, John Kleniatis, Matthew McAllister
  • Publication number: 20130025443
    Abstract: An offset ballistic protection device protecting a wall provided with a hatch (200), wherein said device comprises at least a first grid (1) offset with respect to the wall and comprising a first series of bars (1a) parallel to each other and substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis (400) of a hinge (300) of the hatch (200). This ballistic protection device (101) comprises a second grid (2) offset with respect to the hatch (200) and comprising a second series of bars (2a) substantially parallel to the first series of bars (1a), wherein the second grid (2) is positioned with respect to the first grid (1) so that the bars (2a) thereof are spatially offset in the plane of the second grid (2) with respect to the bars (1a) of the first grid (1), wherein the bars (2a) of the second grid (2) are therefore able to pass between the bars (1a) of the first grid (1) during pivoting of the leaf (200).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: NEXTER SYSTEMS
    Inventors: Alain HUBSCH, Daniel BAPTISTA, Christian PRYBILSKI, Bernard DENIS
  • Publication number: 20130025442
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a protective device using a net for a combat vehicle. The protective device includes a rocket bomb removal assembly provided on each of intersection portions of the net. The rocket bomb removal assembly has first intersection support points supporting net strands of the net that are brought into contact with the rocket bomb and are changed into a circular shape when the rocket bomb moves forwards, and second intersection support points supporting the net strands that are brought into contact with the rocket bomb and are changed into a circular shape when the rocket bomb is being moved backwards by the reaction of the net. The diameter of the circle formed by the net strands that are supported on the second intersection support points is greater than that of the circle formed by the net strands that are supported on the first intersection support points.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: KOREA NUCLEAR ENGINEERING CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Se-Yup LEE
  • Publication number: 20130019740
    Abstract: A method for and apparatus absorbing the energy of a projectile strike by a multiplicity of energy dissipating elements of high mass that are contained within a spaced defined by walls. A projectile passing through one of the walls transmits its energy to a multiplicity of energy dissipating elements, such as hardened steel balls or various shaped objects of high mass, by causing energy transfer and distribution through a loose mass of the energy dissipating elements and disintegrating the projectiles. Energy absorbing apparatus embodying this method may take the form of a static or moveable bullet or projectile trap, an energy absorbing external barrier or shelter on vehicles, and portable personnel protection structures for use in a tactical environment. The energy absorbing and dissipating elements are subject to some movement in response to the energy imparted by the projectiles and quickly settle after the energy has been dissipated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventor: Mark C. Larue
  • Publication number: 20130016449
    Abstract: In an embodiment, a self-defense system is disclosed. The self-defense system may include or comprise a material sized to conform to an appendage, and a defense unit coupled with the material and positioned to initiate a defense event in response to an input.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Inventor: Jerry Alan Crandall
  • Publication number: 20130014633
    Abstract: A semi-continuous duty, Green Technology, self-charging 14, unmanned electric vehicle providing protection and security from underground mines. A deflector blade 11 follows natural existing contours to maintain straight line paths, while simultaneously carrying a mine detector 10, a vertical reciprocating ram set 30, 32 and 33 that preloads soil while also creating forward motion, followed by an energy dissipation and containment canopy system 22, 24, 26 & 29. The comprehensive system provides protection from mines on existing pathways in desert environments using a self-sufficient energy source. In addition, the total system utilizes only Green Technology for all modes of operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Inventor: Kevin Diaz
  • Publication number: 20120291615
    Abstract: A bullet resistant panel member for protecting an object, for example a vehicle, from a projectile comprises inner and outer skin layers receiving a plurality of intermediate layers of woven aramid fibres therebetween. The inner and outer skin layers comprises rigid sheets of material arranged to conform to a shape of the object to be protected. Fastening members span under tension between the outer skin layer and the inner skin layer such that the intermediate layers are compressed under pressure between the outer skin layer and the inner skin layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventor: Kenneth C. Tatarliov
  • Patent number: 8297168
    Abstract: A non-planar ceramic composite and method of making are provided. The non-planar ceramic composite is transparent serves as transparent armor. In a non-limiting embodiment, the non-planar composite provides adequate protection from projectiles while exhibiting large surface areas and relatively low areal densities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Ceramics & Plastics, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher D. Jones, Jeffrey B. Rioux, John W. Locher, Eric S. Carlson, Kathleen R. Farrell, Brian C. Furchner, Vincent Pluen, Matthias Mandelartz
  • Publication number: 20120247313
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to Anti-ballistic Chairs with the preferred embodiment consisting of a conventionally appearing stacking chair with padded seat cushion and back rest, having a tubular framework with arm rests, having the addition of a skirt section below the seat extending to the floor level. The core of the chair will consist of layers of flexible anti-ballistic fabric, also known as soft armor, wrapped in two directions around the tubular members of the back rest, seat and skirt section. Alternatively, the stacking chair will be constructed of pre-manufactured hard anti-ballistic armor components, also known as hard armor. Two additional embodiments will be folding chairs with tubular frameworks, the first having hard armor anti-ballistic surfaces and the second being able to have hard armor or soft armor anti-ballistic surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: PETERS SECURITY INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Fred E. Peters
  • Patent number: 8276499
    Abstract: A convertible ballistic structure has a threat side and a protected side. The ballistic structure includes a body panel assembly, and at least one movable side panel assembly adjacent the body panel assembly. Means are provided for articulating the side panel assembly relative to the body panel assembly, whereby the ballistic structure is convertible between a contracted condition and an expanded condition. In the contracted condition, the side panel assembly extends rearwardly from the body panel assembly and outwardly from the protected side of the ballistic structure. In the expanded condition, the side panel assembly extends outwardly substantially coplanar to the body panel assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Patriot3, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles L. Fuqua, Steven S. Kahre
  • Patent number: 8276498
    Abstract: A modular ballistic shield design includes a viewport which extends from a first lateral edge of the shield to the second lateral edge providing unobstructed viewing. The three modules are connected together in a manner enabling replacement of any particular damaged module. No fastener protrudes through to the front face in a region fronting the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Composiflex
    Inventors: Alan J. Hannibal, Kurt Gunther
  • Publication number: 20120240757
    Abstract: A grille having a plurality of s-louvers shaped to increase the efficiency of air flow through the grille without decreasing the effectiveness of the louvers at stopping or deflecting projectiles. Each louver has a hooked portion at the end of the louver to present a ballistic hook for stopping projectiles ricocheting through the circuitous path defined between the louvers. An insert having a closeout for covering the ballistic hook is positioned within each hooked shape portion to eliminate the eddy or stall created at the end of the circuitous path by ballistic hook. The closeout can be penetrated by projectiles ricocheting through the circuitous path such that the ballistic hook can still capture projectiles within the inlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventors: David Arthur Schade, Torrey Pike, George Thomas, Quan Nguyen, Mike Iwen
  • Patent number: 8272309
    Abstract: A composite truss armor and a method of manufacturing the same. The composite truss armor includes a filler material and a three-dimensional (3D) ordered truss structure. The 3D ordered truss structure includes: a plurality of first truss elements defined by a plurality of first self-propagating polymer waveguides and extending along a first direction; a plurality of second truss elements defined by a plurality of second self-propagating polymer waveguides and extending along a second direction; and a plurality of third truss elements defined by a plurality of third self-propagating polymer waveguides and extending along a third direction. The first, second, and third ordered truss elements interpenetrate each other at a plurality of nodes to form a continuous material. The first, second, and third truss elements define an open space. The filler material occupies at least a portion of the open space, and the 3D ordered truss structure is self-supporting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: HRL Laboratories, LLC
    Inventors: Robert W. Cumberland, Alan J. Jacobsen, Adam F. Gross, William B. Carter
  • Patent number: 8267003
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for attaching a rigid armor plate to the exterior of a vehicle hull. The exemplary system includes an armor attachment point on the vehicle hull, a hole through the armor plate in alignment with the armor attachment point, and a fastener extending through the hole connecting the armor plate to the vehicle hull. The hole through the armor plate may be larger than the fastener, defining a circumferential gap between the fastener and armor plate. The fastener may comprise a material with an energy absorption capability in excess of 2,000 ksi, and more preferably in excess of 5,000 ksi.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Armorworks Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: Ken-An Lou, Matthew Luster
  • Publication number: 20120215408
    Abstract: A surveillance module may be deployed from a vehicle. The vehicle to deploy the surveillance module includes a first portion configured to accommodate a user to operate the vehicle. A second portion includes a module configured to accommodate the user and comprising a roof and an entrance accessible through an interior of the vehicle from the first portion. The second portion also includes a lifting mechanism coupled to the module and operable to move the module vertically from a retracted position to an extended position. A third portion defines an opening to accommodate the module, wherein the roof of the module couples to a periphery of the opening in the retracted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: TerraHawk, LLC
    Inventors: Tom R. James, John R. Spence
  • Publication number: 20120210861
    Abstract: A system for use in a construction including a compartment to be protected from an explosive threat incoming from an expected threat direction. The construction comprises a surface disposed in front of the compartment and having at least a section thereof expected to be impacted by the explosive threat, and a component disposed between the surface and the compartment. The system comprises two cables, and an elongated element having two end portions and a bendable portion and being configured for mounting in the construction so that at least a part of the bendable portion is disposed between the section and the compartment and flexible towards the compartment to be protected, upon application thereto of a force caused by the explosive threat. Each cable is connectable at one end thereof to the component, and at the other end thereof is connected to one of the ends of the elongated element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: PLASAN SASA LTD.
    Inventor: Benny Tobie
  • Patent number: 8245622
    Abstract: A vehicle and structure shield includes a flexible net subsystem including an array of rods or hard points supported by the net subsystem and configured to impact a projectile striking the net. A frame includes mounting brackets attached thereto positioning the frame in a spaced relationship with respect to the vehicle or structure. A first releasable fastener subsystem releasably secures the net subsystem to the frame and a second releasable fastener subsystem releasably secures the mounting brackets of the frame to a vehicle or structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: QinetiQ North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Farinella, Robert Lee Cardenas, William R. Lawson, Brendan LaBrecque, Frances Rush, David Hoadley, Michael Wheaton, Michael Anderson, Thomas Mann, Abed Kanaan, Patrick Callahan
  • Patent number: 8245620
    Abstract: A shield system for an ordnance having a fuse sensitivity includes a frame and a flexible net subsystem supported by the frame. Chords of net material intersect at nodes forming mesh openings and a hard point is attached to at least select nodes. The net material has a breaking strength such that a chord will break upon impact of an ordnance fuse with the chord for a predetermined percentage (e.g., 100%) of ordnance fuse impacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: QinetiQ North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Farinella, William Lawson, Matthew Ebbs
  • Patent number: 8245621
    Abstract: A vehicle and structure shield includes a flexible net subsystem including an array of rods or hard points supported by the net subsystem and configured to impact a projectile striking the net. A frame includes mounting brackets attached thereto positioning the frame in a spaced relationship with respect to the vehicle or structure. A first releasable fastener subsystem releasably secures the net subsystem to the frame and a second releasable fastener subsystem releasably secures the mounting brackets of the frame to a vehicle or structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: QinetiQ North America
    Inventors: Michael D. Farinella, Robert Lee Cardenas, William R. Lawson, Brendan LaBrecque, Frances Rush, David Hoadley, Michael Wheaton, Michael Anderson, Thomas Mann, Abed Kanaan, Patrick Callahan