Through an SBIR Project, F3 Engineering has developed a Magnetorheological Advanced Energy Absorber Concept Product (MAEA) that integrates with the seat structure, replacing traditional energy absorbers with shock-absorbing apparatuses that reduce the risk of injury to troop seat occupants. The concept product can, in real time, determine the gross weight of the system, including the seat structure and occupant, dictating system response during a crash event.
The technology utilized in this project is a variation of the breakthrough technology originally developed by F3 for Naval Air Systems Command (Navair) through an SBIR that created a side lateral engine mount for the E-2C Hawkeye aircraft.