Personal protection
What injuries can be expected due to a bullet impact on a helmet? How does a bullet, explosion or grenade (IED) affect the human body? What protection level is provided by bullet proof vests and how can this be improved? Can feasible requirements for personal protection be specified given a specific threat range?
This is just a small selection of the questions TNO can answer. Research projects typically start with the definition of the threat (explosive, ammunition, etc.) which is transformed into a load or effect on the human body, outfit and gear. Combining experiments with numerical simulations provides an efficient method to evaluate the protection level provided by the equipment. The results of which may be compared with international standards and research.
Participation in international forums keeps TNO at the front end of global developments. This enables TNO to support and advise on the improvement and development of personal protection. In cooperation with other TNO departments other aspects may be addressed including ergonomics, selection of materials or fabrication techniques.
Support and development
TNO advises in finding solutions to improve personal protection systems and enhance the security and safety of persons for a range of threats including bullets, explosions, fragments, knife stabbing, hitting and punching.