Artisent, Inc. will develop, test, and deliver a Next Generation (N-Gen) helmet for the Marine Corps ground forces that provides a modular system for headgear protection and sensory enhancement. Next generation, lightweight ballistic protective materials will be employed in developing a new ballistic shell capable exceeding the ballistic performance of the current Light Weight Helmet (LWH) at reduced weight. A new liner/suspension system will incorporate impact absorbing pads and a fully adjustable internal head-band to provide a comfortable yet stable fit and improved protection against non-ballistic events. Artisent will design and integrate hearing protection and a mandible and visor for additional face and eye protection. A lightweight, integrated accoutrement support structure which surrounds the lower perimeter of the ballistic shell will provide a consistent mounting platform for the addition of night vision goggles and other commonly-used tactical equipment. In Phase I Artisent will demonstrate feasibility for a modular architecture and deliver drawings and draft specifications for a fully integrated modular system. In a Phase I Option, Artisent will conduct an anthropometric study to predict the sizing tariff for the helmets. A 3-D CAD model assembly of the N-Gen helmet system will be created for Phase II reference and component refinement.
Benefit: The N-Gen helmet will bring to the Marine Corps ground forces improved performance in terms of ballistic, blunt force, and fragmentation survivability, as well as reduced weight and improved comfort and stability over the current Light Weight Helmet (LWH). The modular design will provide greater flexibility in procurement for a variety of military missions and, because the user can customize the system for various missions, can address other markets such as Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams, police, fire, and emergency responder applications.
Keywords: Ballistic helmet, Ballistic helmet, face protection, visor, Modular, custom fit retention system, stability, integrated head protection, mandible
