Patent ID: 7597040
Filing Date: 2009-10-06
Classification: B32B,F41H,F42D

Abstract:
1. A composite armor panel configured to absorb energy to protect a body from the impact of a high energy event, the panel comprising: a rigid inner sheet defining opposite inner and outer surfaces, the inner surface directed toward the body; a plurality of energy absorption elements disposed on the outer surface of the inner sheet, each energy absorption element formed of a laminate composite material configured with a terminating end attached to the inner sheet and at least a first portion, not attached to the inner sheet, extending from the terminating end generally outward from the inner sheet such that each energy absorption element is configured to be deformed inwardly by the impact and thereby at least partially delaminate the laminate composite material of the energy absorbing element, wherein each energy absorption element is distinct from each other energy absorption element, and wherein a tangent to the first portion of each energy absorption element intersects the inner sheet; and an outer sheet defining opposite interior and exterior surfaces, the interior surface directed toward the body, the inner sheet, and the plurality of energy absorption elements.