Advancing Comfort and Mobility in Soft Ballistic Inserts
Testing laboratory Hohenstein and global science company DuPont have collaborated to develop three innovative and reliable test methods to assess the comfort and mobility of soft ballistic inserts.
Maximizing wearability in body armor, such as bulletproof vests, is critical to enhancing performance and endurance for law enforcement officers and military personnel. These new testing methods bridge the gap between traditional assessments and real-world body movements experienced by the end user.
An interdisciplinary team of experts from Hohenstein and DuPont developed these test methods to guarantee a scientific and reliable assessment of ergonomic comfort in ballistic gear. “It is in the DNA of Hohenstein to get as close as possible to the user’s reality,” said Dr. Jan Beringer, Senior Scientific Expert at Hohenstein.
“Through dedicated wear trials, we identified potential discomfort and movement restrictions. Working closely with DuPont, we leveraged decades of expertise to design specialized test equipment that simulates real-world wearability conditions.”
Christophe Djololian, Global Market Development Leader at DuPont, emphasized the critical role of wearability in soft ballistic solutions. “For law enforcement and military professionals, maximizing comfort and flexibility is essential.” These individuals operate under extreme conditions, where every aspect of their gear impacts their mobility, endurance, and efficiency.
“By leveraging Hohenstein’s expertise in textiles and ergonomic testing, we aim to drive industry-wide advancements that improve user experience and enhance operational performance.”
Introducing Three Advanced Comfort and Mobility Tests
The newly developed test methods address key pain points encountered in body armor wearability, helping manufacturers improve the product performance. Have a look:
- Lower Costal Bending (LCB) Test
The Lower Costal Bending test simulates the bending movements of the upper body. When on duty, officers and military personnel often perform frequent and multi-directional bends, leading to energy loss and increased fatigue. The LCB test quantifies lost energy due to the stiffness of a ballistic vest, offering manufacturers valuable insights on how to enhance flexibility and endurance in their designs.
- Double Curvature Compression (DCC) Test
The Double Curvature Compression test replicates the shape of a curved torso and employs digital imaging technology to measure adaptability and movement efficiency in real-world scenarios. By analyzing the deformation and pressure distribution, manufacturers can refine materials and construction techniques to optimize wearer comfort.
- Edge Pressure (EP) Test
Where ballistic vests contact the body—such as the lower abdomen, neck, and arms—pressure points can lead to significant discomfort. The Edge Pressure test simulates the curvature of body armor edges and measures localized pressure effects. This test allows manufacturers to evaluate and mitigate pressure points, improving the overall wearing experience for personnel who rely on body armor for extended periods.
“Hohenstein offers flexible solutions based on customer needs,” explains Dr. Jan Beringer. “Our independent certified testing services provide credibility for businesses seeking to verify their products, while our on-site test equipment enables in-house R&D teams to continuously refine and innovate.”
The collaboration between Hohenstein and DuPont marks a significant milestone in the development of ergonomic body armor solutions. These three innovative test methods provide manufacturers, distributors, and retailers with scientifically backed insights to improve comfort, mobility, and overall performance in soft ballistic inserts.
By implementing these cutting-edge assessments, businesses can ensure that their products meet the highest industry standards, ultimately benefiting law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals.
For more information on certified testing or purchasing test equipment, visit the site: https://www.hohenstein.us/en-us/
