Patent Publication Number: US-2016242547-A1

Title: Ballistic barrier furniture and office systems

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US201.4/060758, filed Oct. 15, 2014, entitled “Ballistic Barrier Furniture and Office Systems,” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/893,685, filed Oct. 21, 2013, entitled “Upholstered Contract Furniture Seating with Ballistic Barrier for Protecting the Public,” both of which are incorporated herein by reference for all that they disclose. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to furniture in general and more specifically to upholstered commercial (e.g., contract) furniture and partition systems incorporating a laminated ballistic barrier. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Contract furniture, especially upholstered contract furniture is plentiful in many public and commercial spaces, such as lobbies, airports, office buildings, courthouses, schools, shopping malls, theaters and train and bus stations. In the event of gunfire in public or commercial spaces, the natural instinct of those trapped by the gunfire is to hide behind any available structure, including furniture. Some case goods installed in high risk environments, such as banks, claim ballistic barrier capabilities. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     According to embodiments described herein, the ballistic barrier seating system of the present invention comprises a seat platform, the seat platform comprising at least two lateral supports in parallel spaced relation supporting a seat between them; a back assembly connected to the seat platform, the back assembly comprising a first laminated ballistic barrier; and a plurality of legs connected to the seat platform. 
     In another embodiment, the ballistic barrier seating system, comprises a plurality of sides in spaced parallel relation, including two end sides, each side comprising a side panel and a leg connected to the side panel, and at least each end side panel comprising a. laminated ballistic barrier; a plurality of seat platforms, each seat platform being disposed between and connected to the sides; and a plurality of back assemblies, each back assembly comprising a laminated ballistic barrier and being disposed between and connected to the sides. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Illustrative and presently preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  is an orthographic view of an embodiment of the ballistic barrier furniture system of the present invention for an upholstered lounge chair; 
         FIG. 2  is a plan view of a cross-section of the chair shown in  FIG. 1  just above the seat cushion; 
         FIG. 3  shows cross sections of various embodiments for arms of an upholstered lounge chair of the present invention, including in (A) an arm shown on the chair in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a front view of another embodiment of the ballistic barrier furniture system of the present invention for an upholstered office side chair; 
         FIG. 5  shows counterweight members used in various embodiments of the ballistic furniture and partition systems of the present invention; 
         FIG. 6  is an exploded view of the upholstered office side chair in  FIG. 4 , including at least one counterweight member; 
         FIG. 7  is a view of an embodiment of the ballistic barrier furniture system of the present invention for bench seating; 
         FIG. 8  is a side view (A) and front views (B) and (C) of an embodiment of the ballistic barrier furniture system of the present invention for fixed seating; 
         FIG. 9  is various side views of another embodiment of the ballistic barrier furniture system of the present invention for fixed seating; and 
         FIG. 10  contains various views of a ballistic barrier partition system of the present invention, as well as bracing and counterweight systems. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Mass shootings are on the rise in the U.S. and elsewhere. Instead of running for an exit, the immediate reaction of those trapped by gunfire is to drop to the floor and hide behind any structure, including the chair that they may have most recently occupied. However, existing commercial furniture provides no meaningful protection from gunfire. Ballistic barrier furniture system  10  of the present invention provides meaningful ballistic barrier protection for upholstered commercial furniture and partition systems found in public and commercial spaces by stopping bullets fired from pistols and handguns, and impeding the forward progress of projectiles fired from higher velocity weapons. 
     Ballistic barrier furniture system  10  comprises any upholstered furniture, including upholstered partitions (e.g., office partition system  500 ) and office systems, and seating for one (e.g., chair  12 ,  112 ) or many (e.g., ballistic barrier bench seating  200 , ballistic barrier fixed seating  300 ,  400 ). Alternatively, ballistic barrier furniture system  10  may be used in other applications and furniture types as would become apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art after becoming familiar with the teachings provided herein. For example, ballistic furniture system  10  for chair  12  may be easily adapted for a love seat, sofa or sectional sofa. Consequently, the present invention should not be viewed as being limited to the specific furniture and partition embodiments shown and described here. 
     In the event of unexpected gunfire in a location equipped with the ballistic barrier furniture system  10  of the claimed invention, occupant of chair  12  (or other persons) may crouch or lay down behind any side of chair  12  to be shielded from the impact of bullets fired from weapons, including handguns and shotguns. Should an assailant shoot at a person taking shelter behind or in front of chair  12  of the present invention, a projectile fired from a weapon would pass through upholstery  24 , foam  34  and frame  32 , but become lodged in laminated ballistic barrier  22 , as further explained below. There is no known furniture or partition system that affords similar protection. Various embodiments of ballistic barrier furniture system  10  will now be described with reference to the drawing figures. 
     Ballistic barrier furniture system  10  will now be discussed with reference comprises upholstered lounge chair  12 , which includes laminated ballistic barrier  22  positioned within chair back  14  and chair sides  16  and  18 . As shown in  FIG. 1 , back  14  is connected to enclosed sides  16 ,  18  and arms  17 ,  19  which cap sides  16 ,  18 . Back  14  is also connected to seat platform  20  which is supported by at least two lateral supports (not shown). Seat cushion  27  sits atop seat platform  20 , which may be supported with a frame comprising the lateral supports, as well as a back support and a front support (not shown) as would be familiar to one of ordinary skill in the art. Chair  12  is supported by legs  30  which are secured to the bottom of sides  16 ,  18  and back  14 . 
     At the heart of chair  12  is laminated ballistic barrier  22 . Laminated ballistic barrier  22 ,  122 ,  222 ,  322 ,  422 ,  522  comprises multiple ply sheets of ballistic barrier material that are laminated and consolidated. In embodiments of the present invention, laminated ballistic barrier  22  comprises para-aramid synthetic fiber (e.g., poly paraphenylene terephthalamide) sold commercially under the trademark Kevlar® from DuPont. Other similar materials, such as Twaron® commercially available from Teijin Aramid, may also be used, as may be sheets made from S2 glass fiberglass or ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, both of which are also commercially available. In still other embodiments, extruded-type ballistic barrier material forming a single layer may also be used; therefore, while embodiments herein are described with reference to laminated ballistic barrier  22 , the invention should not be viewed as being limited in that respect. In an embodiment, use of poly paraphenylene terephthalamide may be advantageous because it is lighter in weight than other materials mentioned. In embodiments described herein, approximately nine to twelve sheets of ballistic material were laminated and consolidated into rigid panels, approximately 5.23 millimeters (mm) (0.206 inches (in)) to about 9.52 mm (0.375 in) in thickness or until the desired level of ballistic protection is achieved. As is explained in more detail below, laminated ballistic barrier  22  of certain shapes and sizes was tested repeatedly for its ability to withstand gunfire, although the invention should not be viewed as being limited to number or size of sheets of ballistic barrier material. For example, as would be familiar to one of ordinary skill in the art after becoming familiar with the teachings of the present invention, additional sheets or plies of ballistic barrier material may be used to afford greater protection, such as that desired to withstand gunfire from shotguns and rifles. 
     As can be best seen in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , laminated ballistic barrier  22  may be cut and sized to fit within back  14  and sides  16 ,  18 . The rigid laminated ballistic barrier  22  panels may then be cut to a desired size or shape using a commercial cutting system, such as a diamond blade circular saw, computer numerical control (CNC) machine or wet-jet cutting system. In another embodiment, laminated ballistic barrier  22  may be formed or molded to the desired size and shape without cutting. It need not be substantially the same size as back  14  and sides  16 ,  18 ; however, ballistic barrier protection may be enhanced by having laminated ballistic barrier  22  cover as much of the interior height and interior width of back  14  and sides  16 ,  18  as possible. Once sized, laminated ballistic material  22  may then be inserted in into the interior of or otherwise used in connection with chairs  12 ,  112 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 , and partition  510  in the manner described herein; however, the present invention should not be viewed as being limited in that respect. In one embodiment shown, laminated ballistic barrier  22  is inserted into, applied to or otherwise fastened by adhesive, glue, clips, or any other fastener to at least a portion of frame  32 . In the embodiment shown, frame  32  may comprise wood, plastic, metal, engineered board or any other material suitable and form the interior structure for back  14 , sides,  16 ,  18 , seat platform  20  and arms  17 ,  19 . Foam  34 , or other cushioning, may be placed around the laminated ballistic barrier  22  or laminated ballistic barrier  22  and frame  32  to cover at least the proximal and distal sides of laminated ballistic barrier  22 , but alternatively, could be applied to the top or bottom as well. See  FIGS. 2 and 3 . Foam  34 , or other cushioning, may be of varying density and thickness, but should be sufficient to insulate a person occupying chair  12  from feeling laminated ballistic barrier  22  When seated. 
     Specifically, in  FIGS. 2 and 3 (A), laminated ballistic material  22  is inserted into and secured to frame  32  which surrounds laminated ballistic material  22  to make a “U shaped internal core as seen in  FIG. 2 . A layer of foam  34  is placed over the top and sides of the combined frame  32  and laminated ballistic barrier. While in the embodiments described herein, foam  34  forms a cushioning layer, the invention should not be viewed as being limited in that respect. Any known or later developed method for cushioning upholstered furniture, such as stretcher material, springs and wool or other stuffing material, may also be used as would become familiar to one of ordinary skill in the art after becoming familiar with the teachings of the present invention. 
     In an embodiment shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 (A), laminated ballistic barrier  22  forms an internal U-shape within sides,  16 ,  18  and back  14  of chair  12 . Foam is applied around the exterior facing sides and top of laminated ballistic barrier  22  and frame  32 ; however, it may also be applied on the interior facing sides adjacent seating platform  20 , as shown in  FIG. 3 . Foam  34  may be secured using bonding agents, fasteners or adhesive. Covering the foam  34  is covering or upholstery  24 , which may comprise fabric, vinyl, leather, composite or other suitable covering for furniture; upholstery  24  is secured using any commercial adhesives, bonding agents or fasteners, as is well known. 
     Alternative embodiments for construction of chair  12  are shown in  FIGS. 3(B)  and (C). In an embodiment in which chair  12  may be an over-sized lounge chair, gap  36  or filler  36 ′, such as stuffing, may be placed in between sections of frame  32  that may be stabilized with lateral bracing  33 . Another embodiment shown in  FIG. 3(C) , shows a “mirror” or “handed” configuration, that may be suitable for sides  16 ,  18  and arms  17 ,  19  of chair  12 . 
     In another embodiment (not shown), supplemental ballistic protection, such as ceramic or metal plates or additional laminated ballistic barriers  22 , may be applied to laminated ballistic barrier  22  to improve resistance to higher caliber impacts, such as from rifles. These additional structures may be inserted in chair  12  and secured in the manner previously described. 
     While  FIGS. 1-3  show an embodiment in which laminated ballistic barrier  22  is secured within each of back  14  and sides  16 ,  18 , this is not required. For example, in another embodiment, chair  12  may be made without arms  17 ,  19  and with sides  16 ,  18  that extend only as high as seat platform  20  or seat cushion  27 . In that case, laminated ballistic barrier  22  may not be included in sides  16 ,  18 . 
     Similarly, ballistic furniture system  100  comprises side chair  112  in which arms  117 ,  119  comprise openwork members that connect directly to legs  130  without the need for sides  16 ,  18 . Therefore, in the embodiment show in  FIG. 4 , laminated ballistic barrier  122  is inserted in back  114  in the manner previously described, but not in sides  16 ,  18  since the “sides” are open. In addition, to enhance the qualities of side chair  112  as a ballistic barrier, side chair  112  may also be equipped with counterweight system  128 , which is configured to help prevent small scale seating (e.g., side chair  112 ) in particular from being dislodged or pushed over onto a person seeking shelter behind side chair  112  in the event side chair  112  is impacted by a projectile. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 4 , counterweight system  128  comprises at least one front counterweight member  138 . Front counterweight member  138  may be affixed to the underside of seat pan  120  supporting seat  126 , which comprises a support structure, cushioning and upholstery  124 , as would be familiar to one of ordinary skill in the art. 
     As best seen in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , counterweight system  128  may comprise one or more counterweight members configured to fit underneath seat pan  120 . In one embodiment, counterweight system  128  may comprise front counterweight member  138 , lateral counterweight members  140  and back counterweight member  142  connected to one another to form a square or rectangular shape. See  FIG. 5(A) . In another embodiment, counterweight system  128  may comprise front counterweight member  138  and lateral counterweight members  140  connected together to form a U-shaped structure. See  FIG. 3(B) . 
     Specifically as shown in  FIG. 5 , counterweight members  138 ,  140 ,  142  comprise square-shaped tubing of various lengths and thicknesses made from carbon steel welded together to form the desired shape (e.g., square, rectangular or U-shape) that may in part be dictated by the shape of seat pan  120 . As shown, the tubing used may be from about 25.4 mm to about 38.1 mm (about 1-1.5 in) in width, height and depth with a minimum wall thickness of about 3.05 mm (0.12 in). Other metals, shapes and sizes may also be used as would be familiar to one of ordinary skill in the art after becoming familiar with the teachings of the present invention. The counterweight members  138 ,  140 ,  142  may be fastened to each other by suitable means, including welding or adhesives, although the invention should not be viewed as being limited in this respect. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , counterweight members  138 ,  140 ,  142  may be affixed to the underside of seat pan  120  in a variety of ways, using adhesive or fasteners. In an embodiment in which fasteners (e.g., screws) are used, counterweight members  138 ,  140 ,  142  may be perforated with holes  145  at desired locations and on opposing sides (e.g., top  147  and bottom  149 ) so that a fastener may pass through counterweight member  139 ,  140 ,  142  to be affixed to the underside of seat pan  120 . The underside of seat pan  120  may be equipped with receivers to receive such fasteners placed through holes  145 . Once the fasteners are inserted through holes  145  and into the receivers on the underside of seat pan  120  and secured, counterweight members  138 ,  140 ,  142  will be firmly affixed to the underside of seat pan  120 , preferably at the outermost edge of seat pan  120  so as not to be visible when side chair  112  is in use; however, this is not required. 
       FIG. 6  shows the manner in which counterweight system  128  may be affixed to the underside of side chair  112 . As shown, counterweight system  128  comprises front, back and lateral counterweight members  138 ,  142  and  140  fixedly connected to one another (e.g. welded together) to form a rectangular shape. Counterweight system  128  may be fastened to the underside of seat pan  120  that comprises frame  132  and corner block  144  in the manner previously described. Frame  132  comprises lateral supports  133 , front support  135  and back support  137  that are fixedly connected to one another to form seat pan  120  and support seat  126 , along with the seat occupant. Seat  126  is secured to seat pan  120  in a manner familiar to one of ordinary skill in the art. Although the counterweight system  128  has been described with reference to the particular embodiments shown, it should not be viewed as being limited to a particular shape or configuration. In addition, the separate members may or may not be connected to one another or may be fashioned from a single piece of metal tubing or other sufficiently heavy material. 
     An embodiment of the present invention for beam seating will now be described with reference to  FIG. 7 . Ballistic furniture system  200  comprises at least two chairs  212 ,  212 ′ sharing component parts. The structure for chairs  212 ,  212 ′ comprises support beam  243 , which is fastened to legs  230  and feet  231  on proximal and distal ends of beam  243 , as well as lateral support frames  232  which support back  214  and seat  226 . By virtue of beam  243 , only two legs  230  are required for two chairs  212 ,  212 ′, but the invention should not be viewed as being limited in this respect. Beam  243  also supports seat  226  and back  214  from underneath. As shown in  FIG. 7 , back  214  and seat  226  portions of chairs  212 ,  212 ′ are connected together with lateral substantially L-shaped frames  232 , that support back cushion  215  and seat cushion  227  between the lateral support frames  232 . In addition, arms  217 ,  218 ,  219  are connected to proximal and distal ends of frame  232  and beam  243 . Chairs  212 ,  212 ′ share arm  218  in the embodiment shown. 
     Laminated ballistic barrier  222  may be included as part of back  214  in at least two ways. In one embodiment, laminated ballistic barrier  222  may be inserted into the interior of back  214 , secured to frame  232  and covered with back cushion  215  on both the front side (on which a person occupying chair  212  would rest his back and the opposite (back) side of back cushion  215 . In another embodiment, laminated ballistic barrier may be molded in the desired shape of combined back  214  and seat  226  portions of chairs  212 ,  212 ′ to form an “exoskeleton,” serving as the exterior of combined back  214  and seat  226  portions of chairs  212 ,  212 ,′ providing additional support for back cushion  215  and seat cushion  227  along with frame  232 . In another embodiment, laminated ballistic barrier  222  may comprise an exo-skeleton for back  214 , but not seat  226  portion of chairs  212 ,  212 ′. 
     Back cushion  215  and seat cushion  227  may be covered with upholstery  224  in the manner previously described. Back  214  and seat  226  may be unitary as shown in  FIG. 7 , but this is not required. 
     Counterweight system  228  of the ballistic furniture system  200  may comprise beam  243 , which may be weighted to provide a counterweight to the force of an oncoming projectile fired from a weapon. In another embodiment, feet  231  may be anchored (e.g., bolted or otherwise fastened) to the floor to keep ballistic furniture system  200  upright if subjected to gun fire. 
     Embodiments of the present invention for theatre seating will now be described with reference to  FIGS. 8 and 9 . Whereas ballistic furniture system  300  comprises an embodiment in which laminated ballistic barrier  322  may be inserted into the interior of back  314  and sides  316 ,  317 ,  318 , ballistic furniture system  400  comprises an embodiment in which laminated ballistic barrier  322  may comprise an exo-skeleton forming the exterior of back  414  and side  416 , as is explained in more detail below. 
     With reference to  FIG. 8 , ballistic furniture system  300  comprises at least two chairs  312 ,  312 ′ sharing component parts. Support for chairs  312 ,  312  comprises sides  316 ,  316 ′  317  configured in spaced substantially parallel relation. Sides  316 ,  316 ′ comprise end sides, with side  318  comprising a shared side for chairs  312 ,  312 ′. On the end closest to the floor, sides  316 ,  316 ′,  318  are affixed to legs  30  and feet  33 , which are anchored (e.g., bolted or otherwise fastened) to the floor. The opposite ends of sides  316 ,  316 ,  318  are connected to arms  317 ,  317 ′,  319 . Again, arm  319  is shared by seats  312  and  312 ′. Back  314  may be fixedly mounted to and supported by sides  316 ,  316 ′  318  using bolts or other fasteners or otherwise mounted to sides  316 ,  316 ′,  318  in a manner that allows back  314  to recline as is known in the art. Seat assembly  326 , which comprises seat pan  333  and cushion  327 , may be pivotally mounted to sides  316 ,  316 ′,  318  by means of a rod, pin or other device in a manner that allows seat assembly  326  to pivot so that it is in an extended position  343  when it is occupied and stowed in an upright position  345  when it is not as shown in  FIGS. 7(B)  and (C). 
     As shown in  FIG. 8 , laminated ballistic barrier  322  (described above) may be inserted at least in the interior core of back  314 . In an alternative embodiment, laminated ballistic barrier  322  may also be inserted in end sides  316 ,  316 .′ From the exterior of back  314  towards the interior, back  314  comprises frame  332  to which laminated ballistic barrier  322  is affixed by adhesive or other means as previously discussed. Laminated ballistic barrier  322  may be sized to occupy the substantially the same area occupied by frame  332 ; however, laminated ballistic barrier  322  could occupy a smaller area. Back cushion  315 , comprising foam  334  or other cushioning and covered with upholstery  324 , is affixed to laminated ballistic barrier  322  so that it is not discernible to the seat occupant when leaning back against back  214 . Frame  332  and sides  316 ,  316 ′  317 , as well as seat pan  333  may variously comprise wood, metal, plastic or composite materials as are suitably for theatre seating. 
     With reference to  FIG. 9 , ballistic furniture system  400  comprises at least chair  412 . Support for chair  412  comprises sides  416  configured in spaced substantially parallel relation. On the end of side  416  closed to the floor, side  416  may be affixed to leg  430  and foot  433 , which is anchored to the floor. The opposite ends of side  416  may be connected to arms  417 . Back  414  may be fixedly mounted to and supported by sides  416 , using bolts or other fasteners or otherwise mounted to sides  416 ; in a manner that allows back  414  to recline as is known in the art. Seat assembly  426 , which comprises seat pan  433  and cushion  427 , may be pivotally mounted to sides  416  by means of a rod, pin or other device in a manner that allows seat assembly  426  to pivot in directions shown by arrow  441  so that it is in an extended position  443  when it is occupied and stowed in an upright position  445  when it is not as shown in  FIGS. 9(B) . 
     As shown in  FIG. 9 , laminated ballistic barrier  422  (described above) may be affixed to the exterior of back  414  may also serve as a support structure such that an additional frame may or may not be used. In an alternative embodiment, laminated ballistic barrier  422  may be affixed to sides  416 , or side  416  may comprise ballistic barrier  422  alone. From the exterior of back  414  towards the interior, back  414  comprises laminated ballistic barrier  322  which is sized to comprise the entire or substantially the entire area of back  414 . Alternatively, laminated ballistic barrier may be affixed to a frame with the laminated ballistic barrier  422  on the exterior of back  414 . Back cushion  415 , comprising foam  434  or other cushioning and covered with upholstery  424 , is affixed to laminated ballistic barrier  422  so that it is not discernible to the seat occupant when leaning back against back  214 . Alternatively, if laminated ballistic barrier is affixed to an internal frame, foam  434  would be affixed to the frame by adhesive, bonding agent or other means. Frame and sides  416 , as well as seat pan  433  may variously comprise wood, metal, plastic or composite materials as are suitable for theatre seating. 
     Although  FIG. 9  shows one chair  416 , in an embodiment, ballistic furniture system  400  may comprise multiple chairs  412  with shared component parts in a manner similar to that described above in connection with an embodiment of ballistic furniture system  300 . In that embodiment, sides  416  comprise end sides with at least one shared side in between and arms  419  may comprise end arms with at least one additional arm in between shared by two chairs  412 . In addition, although  FIG. 8  describes an embodiment in which laminated ballistic barrier  322  is provided inside back  314  and sides  316 ,  318  and  FIG. 9  describes an embodiment in which laminated ballistic barrier  422  comprises an exo-skeleton on the exterior of back  414  and side  416 , elements of these two embodiments can be combined. Thus, for example, back  414  may be paired with sides  316 ,  318 , while back  314  may be paired with sides  416 . 
     Office partition system  500  will now be described with reference to  FIG. 10 . Office partition system  500  comprises at least one partition  510 . Partition  510  comprises a rectangular frame  532  and a support base  530 , into which frame  532  is inserted, as shown in  FIG. 10 . Frame  532  may be configured to receive laminated ballistic barrier  522 , bracing  527  or counterweights  528 , and cover  524 . To that end, frame  532  comprises at least first lateral support  534  and second lateral support  536 , which are sized and shaped to receive laminated ballistic barrier  522 . Thus, in one embodiment, frame  532  may comprise a “C” channel frame. In another embodiment comprising multiple, linked partitions  510 ,  510 ′ as shown in  FIG. 10 , frame  532  may comprise an “H” channel frame. Laminated ballistic barrier  522  may be inserted into the channel for frame  532 , secured using fasteners, bonding agents or adhesives and covered on both the interior side (e.g., adjacent work station space) and exterior side facing the work station exterior with cover  524 , which may be any suitable decorative covering, including upholstery, wall covering or paneling.  FIG. 10(A) . In another embodiment, partition  510  may further comprise an internal wall(s) (not shown) to which laminated ballistic barrier  522  is secured by adhesive. The internal wall(s) would also be secured in frame  532  toward the interior of partition  510  with laminated ballistic barrier  522  glued on the outside of the internal wall the exterior of partition  510 . Laminated ballistic barrier  522  would then be covered with cover  524  in the manner previously described. In an alternative embodiment, cover  524  may not be required, such as in the case where laminated ballistic barrier  522  may be imprinted with a design or other feature directly on the interior and exterior surfaces of laminated ballistic barrier  522 . 
     In other embodiments, such as those shown in  FIGS. 10  (B)-(D), partition system  500  may comprise bracing  527 , counterweights  528 , or both, placed on the interior facing side of laminated ballistic barrier  528 . Bracing  527  may comprise support members made of metal or other suitable material to enhance the stability of partition  510  and mitigate twisting or dislodgment of partition  510  in the event partition  510  is struck by gunfire in the manner described herein. In the embodiments shown, bracing  527  may be affixed to lateral supports  534 ,  536  of frame  532  using adhesive or fasteners, as have previously been described. Various configurations for bracing  527 , such as those shown in  FIGS. 10(B)  and (D), are possible, but the invention should not be viewed as being limited in that respect. 
     Similarly, counterweight  528  may be secured to frame  527 , support base  530  or top cap  5 , separately or in combination, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art after becoming familiar with the teachings of the present invention. Counterweight  528  comprise members as previously described but may be sized and weighted accordingly to help maintain the stability of partition  510  when impacted by gunfire. 
     Once the laminated ballistic barrier  522  and any desired bracing  527  or counterweight  528 , and cover  524  (if desired) are inserted in frame  532 , frame  532  is inserted in supporting base  530  and capped with top cap  538 . In another embodiment, top cap  538  may also comprise a frame member similar to lateral supports  534 ,  536 . In yet another embodiment, cover  524  may be applied after frame  532  has been inserted in support base  530  and capped with top cap  538 . 
     Partition system  500  of the present invention may comprise a single free-standing partition  510  or multiple partitions  510  that may be connected to one another as part of a larger partition system  500  comprising multiple work stations, for example. Partition system  500  of the present invention may therefore also be combined with various pieces of case goods and other office furniture. 
     The occupants of any of the ballistic seating systems  10 ,  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400  or user of the partition system  500  may seek refuge behind either side of the ballistic seating systems  10 ,  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400  or partition system  500  of the present invention, because the laminated ballistic barrier  22 ,  122 ,  222 ,  322 ,  422 ,  522  will stop certain gun fire from penetrating it, as discussed herein, regardless of the direction from which the projectile is fired. 
     Ballistic Testing 
     As is explained in more detail below, laminated ballistic barrier  22  of certain shapes and sizes was tested repeatedly for its ability to withstand gunfire, although the invention should not be viewed as being limited to number or size of sheets of ballistic barrier material. For example, as would be familiar to one of ordinary skill in the art after becoming familiar with the teachings of the present invention, additional sheets or plies of ballistic barrier material or additional laminated ballistic barrier  22  panels may be used to afford greater protection, such as that desired to withstand gunfire from shotguns and rifles. Laminated ballistic barrier  22 , as described herein in the various embodiments of the present invention was subjected to eight rounds of ballistic resistance testing conducted in compliance with the test parameters established by the National Institutes of Justice (NIJ). In all cases, laminated ballistic barrier  22  exceeded NIJ performance requirements for shield products (NU 0108.01) and body an-nor (NIJ 0108.06), as well as Underwriters Laboratories (UL) performance requirements for ballistic glass (UL 752) when being fired upon using a 44 Magnum or 9 mm handgun (NIJ I, II-A, II and IIIA ratings; UL 752 Levels 1-3, 6). Performance requirements were assessed using a V 50  ballistic limit rating. The V 50  rating, a military standard for the upper limit of effectiveness for ballistic shields, armor and glass, is an average of an equal number of highest partial penetration and lowest complete penetration velocities. The V 50  rating for NIJ III-A armor type requires that the ballistic material being tested withstand penetration at a required bullet velocity of 426±15 m/s (1400±50 ft/s) (NIJ 0108.01for shield products) or 436 m/s (1430 ft/s) (NU 0101.06 for body armor) when fired upon using a .44 Magnum or 9 mm pistol. In testing performed, laminated ballistic barrier  22  substantially exceeded the V 50  rating performance requirement of 436 m/s, as explained in more detail below. 
     In this test round, laminated ballistic barrier  22  target was approximately 0.145 square meters (m 2 ) (225 in 2 ) in size, with an average thickness of 5.23 mm (0.206 in) and a weight of 0.92 kilograms (kg) (2.03 lbs.), with a linear mass fiber density of 3000 denier (d). Average surface density was 6.35 kilograms per square meter (kg/m 2 ) (1.3 lbs/ft 2 ). Test conditions were: obliquity, 0.0°; primary velocity screens; 1.52 m (5.00 ft), 1.62 m (5.30 ft); primary velocity location, 2.95 m (9.67 ft); range to target; 3.05 in (10.00 ft); target to witness 0.19 m (7.50 in), 0.38 m (15.00 in), 0.00 m; temperature, 19.39 ° C. (66.9 ° F.); barometric pressure 10.10 kilopascal (kPa) (2.98 inches of mercury (inHg)); relative humidity; 44.2%. The witness was a thin sheet of aluminum (i.e., around 0.51 mm (0.020 in) of 2024T3 aluminum). Panels were clamped according to MIL-STD-662F. Laminated ballistic barrier  22  was subjected to testing in this manner with a 9 mm pistol with 124 grain (gr) full metal jacket (FMJ) ammunition with Accurate No. 2 powder. 
     A summary of test results using three high and three low points as set forth below in Table 1 is: V 50 , 505.36 meters per second (m/s) (1658 ft/s; high partial, 499.87 m/s (1640 ft/s); low complete, 505.97 m/s (1660 ft/s); and range of results, 36.27 m/s (119 ft/s). In all of the tables shown below, the results for partial are abbreviated with “P;” complete, with “C.” 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Avg. 
                 Avg. 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Shot 
                 Powder/ 
                 Time 1 
                 Vel. 1 
                 Vel. 1 
                 Time 2 
                 Vel. 2 
                 Vel. 2 
                 Vel. 
                 Vel. 
                   
                 Include 
               
               
                 No. 
                 Seating 
                 (μs) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 (μs) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 Result 
                 in V 50   
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 1 
                 8.2 
                 3321 
                 1506 
                 459.03 
                 2875 
                 1507 
                 459.33 
                 1506 
                 459.03 
                 P 
                 False 
               
               
                 2 
                 9.0 
                 3121 
                 1602 
                 488.29 
                 2705 
                 1602 
                 488.29 
                 1602 
                 488.29 
                 P 
                 True 
               
               
                 3 
                 9.5 
                 2904 
                 1722 
                 524.87 
                 2518 
                 1721 
                 524.56 
                 1721 
                 524.56 
                 C 
                 True 
               
               
                 4 
                 9.2 
                 3050 
                 1639 
                 499.57 
                 2640 
                 1641 
                 500.18 
                 1640 
                 499.87 
                 P 
                 True 
               
               
                 5 
                 9.4 
                 2958 
                 1690 
                 515.11 
                 2561 
                 1692 
                 515.72 
                 1691 
                 515.42 
                 C 
                 True 
               
               
                 6 
                 9.2 
                 3014 
                 1659 
                 505.66 
                 2609 
                 1661 
                 506.27 
                 1660 
                 505.97 
                 C 
                 True 
               
               
                 7 
                 9.0 
                 3067 
                 1630 
                 496.82 
                 2655 
                 1632 
                 497.43 
                 1631 
                 497.13 
                 P 
                 True 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Test Round No. 2 
     In this test round, laminated ballistic barrier  22  target was approximately 0.145  2  (225 in 2 )  in  size, with an average thickness of 5.44 mm (0.214 in) and a weight of 0.93 kg (2.06 lbs.), with denier of 3000d. Average surface density was 6.35 kg/m 2  (1.3 lbs/ft 2 ). Test conditions were: obliquity, 0.0°; primary velocity screens; 1.52 m (5.00 11), 1.62 in (5.30 ft); primary velocity location, 2.95 m (9.67 ft); range to target, 3.05 m (10.00 ft); target to witness 0.19 on (7.50 in), 0.38 m (15.00 in), 0.00 m; temperature, 19.5 ° C. (67.1 ° F.); barometric pressure 10.10 kPa (298 inHg); relative humidity; 45.5%. The witness was a thin sheet of aluminum (i.e., around 0.51 mm (0.020 in) of 2024T3 aluminum). Panels were clamped according to MIL-STD-662F. Laminated ballistic barrier  22  was subjected to testing in this manner with a 9 mm pistol with 124 gr FMJ ammunition with Accurate No. powder. 
     A summary of test results using three high and three low points as set forth below in Table 2 is: V 50 , 515.64 m/s (1695 ft/s); high partial, 513.28 m/s (1684 ft/s); low complete, 518.46 m/s (1701 ft/s); and range of results, 23.77 m/s (78 ft/s). 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                 TABLE 2 
               
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Avg. 
                 Avg. 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Shot 
                 Powder/ 
                 Time 1 
                 Vel. 1 
                 Vel. 1 
                 Time 2 
                 Vel. 2 
                 Vel. 2 
                 Vel. 
                 Vel. 
                   
                 Include 
               
               
                 No. 
                 Seating 
                 (μs) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 (μs) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 Result 
                 in V 50   
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 1 
                 8.3 
                 3280 
                 1524 
                 464.52 
                 2840 
                 1526 
                 465.12 
                 1525 
                 464.82 
                 P 
                 False 
               
               
                 2 
                 9.3 
                 2930 
                 1706 
                 519.99 
                 2541 
                 1705 
                 519.68 
                 1706 
                 519.99 
                 C 
                 True 
               
               
                 3 
                 8.5 
                 3161 
                 1582 
                 482.19 
                 2732 
                 1586 
                 483.41 
                 1584 
                 482.80 
                 P 
                 False 
               
               
                 4 
                 8.9 
                 2976 
                 1680 
                 512.06 
                 2578 
                 1681 
                 512.37 
                 1680 
                 512.06 
                 P 
                 True 
               
               
                 5 
                 9.2 
                 2971 
                 1683 
                 512.98 
                 2572 
                 1685 
                 513.59 
                 1684 
                 513.28 
                 P 
                 True 
               
               
                 6 
                 9.5 
                 2877 
                 1738 
                 529.74 
                 2491 
                 1739 
                 530.05 
                 1739 
                 530.05 
                 C 
                 True 
               
               
                 7 
                 9.3 
                 2937 
                 1702 
                 518.77 
                 2548 
                 1701 
                 518.47 
                 1701 
                 518.46 
                 C 
                 True 
               
               
                 8 
                 9.0 
                 3011 
                 1661 
                 506.27 
                 2608 
                 1661 
                 506.27 
                 1661 
                 506.27 
                 P 
                 True 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Test Round No. 3 
     In this test round, laminated ballistic barrier  22  target was approximately 0.145 m 2  (225 in 2 in  size, with an average thickness of 5.33 mm (0.210 in) and a weight of 0.842 kg (1.86 lbs.), with denier of 3000d. Average surface density w m as 5.96 kg/ 2  (1.22 lbs/ft 2 ). Test conditions were: obliquity, 0.0°; primary velocity location, 1.52 m (5 ft); range to target, 4.57 no (15 11); target to witness 0.10 m (4 in); temperature, 21.1 ° C. (70 ° F.); barometric pressure 10.10 kPa (2.98 inHg); relative humidity; 44%. The witness was a thin sheet of aluminum (i.e., around 0.51 mm (0.020 in) of 2024T3 aluminum). Panels were clamped according to MIL-STD-662F. Laminated ballistic barrier  22  was subjected to testing in this manner with a 0.44 Magnum pistol with 240 gr Speer 4453 ammunition with Bullseye powder. 
     A summary of test results using two high and two low points as set forth below in Table 3 is: V 50 , 481.89 m/s (1581 ft/s); high partial, 489.20 m/s (1605 ft/s); and, low complete, 479.15 m/s (1572 ft/s). 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                 TABLE 3 
               
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Avg. 
                 Avg. 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Shot 
                 Powder 
                 Vel. 1 
                 Vel. 1 
                 Vel. 2 
                 Vel. 2 
                 Vel. 
                 Vel. 
                   
                 Include 
               
               
                 No. 
                 (g) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 Result 
                 in V 50   
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 1 
                 1.00 
                 1631.0 
                 497.13 
                 1629.0 
                 496.52 
                 1630.0 
                 496.82 
                 C 
                 True 
               
               
                 2 
                 1.02 
                 1640.0 
                 499.87 
                 1638.0 
                 499.26 
                 1639.0 
                 499.57 
                 C 
                 False 
               
               
                 3 
                 0.88 
                 1504.0 
                 458.42 
                 1501.0 
                 457.50 
                 1502.5 
                 457.96 
                 P 
                 False 
               
               
                 4 
                 0.94 
                 1573.0 
                 479.45 
                 1571.0 
                 478.84 
                 1572.0 
                 479.15 
                 C 
                 True 
               
               
                 5 
                 0.90 
                 1521.0 
                 463.60 
                 1518.0 
                 462.69 
                 1519.5 
                 463.14 
                 P 
                 True 
               
               
                 6 
                 0.98 
                 1607.0 
                 489.81 
                 1605.0 
                 489.20 
                 1606.0 
                 489.51 
                 P 
                 True 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Test Round No. 4 
     In this test round, laminated ballistic barrier  22  target was approximately 0.145 m 2  (225 in 2 )  in  size, with an average thickness of 5.33 mm (0.210 in) and a weight of 0.838 kg (1.85 lbs.), with denier of 3000d. Average density was 5.96 kg/m 2  (1.22 lbs/ft 2 ). Test conditions were: obliquity, 0.0°; primary velocity location, 1.52 m (5 ft); range to target, 4.57 in (15 ft); target to witness 0.10 m (4 in); temperature, 21.1 ° C. (70 ° F.); barometric pressure 9.55 kPa (2.82 inHg); relative humidity; 44%. The witness was a thin sheet of aluminum (i.e., around 0.51 mm (0.020 in) of 2024T3 aluminum). Panels were clamped according to MIL-STD-662F. Laminated ballistic barrier  22  was subjected to testing in this manner with a .44 Magnum pistol with 240 gr Speer 4453 ammunition with Bullseye powder. 
     A summary of test results using two high and two low points as set forth below in Table 4 is: V 50 , 479.76 m/s (1574 ft/s); high partial, 471.83 m/s (1548 ft/s); and, low complete, 487.07 m/s (1598 ft/s). 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                 TABLE 4 
               
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Avg. 
                 Avg. 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Shot 
                   
                 Vel. 1 
                 Vel. 1 
                 Vel. 2 
                 Vel. 2 
                 Vel. 
                 Vel. 
                   
                 Include 
               
               
                 No. 
                 Powder (g) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 Result 
                 in V 50   
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 1 
                 0.98 
                 1609.0 
                 490.42 
                 1607.0 
                 489.81 
                 1608.0 
                 490.12 
                 C 
                 True 
               
               
                 2 
                 0.96 
                 1599.0 
                 487.38 
                 1596.0 
                 486.46 
                 1597.5 
                 486.92 
                 C 
                 True 
               
               
                 3 
                 0.92 
                 1544.0 
                 470.61 
                 1542.0 
                 470.00 
                 1543.0 
                 470.31 
                 P 
                 True 
               
               
                 4 
                 0.93 
                 1549.0 
                 472.14 
                 1546.0 
                 471.22 
                 1547.5 
                 471.68 
                 P 
                 True 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Test Round No. 5 
     In this test round, laminated ballistic barrier  22  target was approximately 0.145 m 2  (225 in 2 in  size, with an average thickness of 5.33 mm (0.210 in) and a weight of 0.846 kg (1.87 l)s.), with denier of 3000d. Average surface density was 5.96 kg/m 2  (1.22 l)s/ft 2 ). Test conditions were: obliquity, 0.0°; primary velocity location, 1.52 m (5 ft); range to target, 4.57 no (15 ft); target to witness 0.10 in (4 in); temperature, 21.1 ° C. (70 ° F.); barometric pressure 9.55 kPa (2.82 inHg); relative humidity; 44%. The witness was a thin sheet of aluminum (i.e., around 0.020 in of 2024T3 aluminum). Panels were clamped according to MIL-STD-662F. Laminated ballistic barrier  22  was subjected to testing in this manner with a 0.44 Magnum pistol with 240 gr Speer 4453 ammunition with Bullseye powder. 
     A summary of test results using two high and two low points as set forth below in Table 5 is: V 50 , 484.33 m/s (1589 ft/s); high partial, 481.89 m/s (1581 ft/s); and, low complete, 486.77 m/s (1597 ft/s). 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                 TABLE 5 
               
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Avg. 
                 Avg. 
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                 Shot 
                 Powder 
                 Vel. 1 
                 Vel. 1 
                 Vel. 2 
                 Vel. 2 
                 Vel. 
                 Vel. 
                   
                 Include 
               
               
                 No. 
                 (g) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 Result 
                 in V 50   
                 Notes 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 1 
                 0.88 
                 1493.0 
                 455.07 
                 1492.0 
                 454.76 
                 1492.5 
                 454.91 
                 P 
                 False 
                   
               
               
                 2 
                 0.92 
                 1553.0 
                 473.35 
                 1552.0 
                 473.05 
                 1552.5 
                 473.20 
                 P 
                 True 
               
               
                 3 
                 0.96 
                 1582.0 
                 482.19 
                 1580.0 
                 481.58 
                 1581.0 
                 481.89 
                 P 
                 True 
               
               
                 4 
                 1.00 
                 1598.0 
                 487.07 
                 1596.0 
                 486.46 
                 1597.0 
                 486.77 
                 C 
                 True 
               
               
                 5 
                 1.02 
                 1629.0 
                 496.52 
                 1627.0 
                 495.91 
                 1628.0 
                 496.21 
                 C 
                 True 
               
               
                 6 
                 0.94 
                 1562.0 
                 476.10 
                 1561.0 
                 475.79 
                 1561.5 
                 475.95 
                 C 
                 False 
                 Delaminated 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 too much 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Test Round No. 6 
     In this test round, laminated ballistic barrier  22  target was approximately 0.145 no  2 (225 in 2 )  in  size, with an average thickness of 5.33 mm (0.210 in) and a weight of 0.846 kg (1.87 lbs.), with denier of 3000d. Average surface density was 5.96 kg/m 2  (1.22 lbs/ft 2 ). Test conditions were: obliquity, 0.0°; primary velocity location, 1.52 m (5 ft); range to target, 4.57 m (15 ft); target to witness 0.10 m (4 in); temperature, 21.1 ° C. (70 ° F.); barometric pressure 9.55 kPa (2.82 inHg), relative humidity; 44%. The witness was a thin sheet of aluminum (i.e., around 0.51 mm (0.020 in) of 2024T3 aluminum). Panels were clamped according to MIL-STD-662F. Laminated ballistic barrier  22  was subjected to testing in this manner with a .44 Magnum pistol with 240 gr Speer 4453 ammunition with BuIlseye powder. 
     A summary of test results using two high and two low points as set forth below in Table 6 is: V 50 , 471.83 m/s (1548 ft/s); high partial, 466.65 m/s (1531 ft/s); and, low complete, 479.45 m/s (1573 ft/s). 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                 TABLE 6 
               
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Avg. 
                 Avg. 
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                 Shot 
                 Powder 
                 Vel. 1 
                 Vel. 1 
                 Vel. 2 
                 Vel. 2 
                 Vel. 
                 Vel. 
                   
                 Include 
               
               
                 No. 
                 (g) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 Result 
                 in V 50   
                 Notes 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 1 
                 0.96 
                 1573.0 
                 479.45 
                 1572.0 
                 479.15 
                 1572.5 
                 479.30 
                 C 
                 True 
                   
               
               
                 2 
                 0.94 
                 1576.0 
                 480.36 
                 1573.0 
                 479.45 
                 1574.5 
                 479.91 
                 C 
                 True 
               
               
                 3 
                 0.90 
                 1532.0 
                 466.95 
                 1530.0 
                 466.34 
                 1531.0 
                 466.65 
                 P 
                 True 
               
               
                 4 
                 0.88 
                 1516.0 
                 462.08 
                 1513.0 
                 461.16 
                 1514.5 
                 461.62 
                 P 
                 True 
               
               
                 5 
                 0.96 
                 1585.0 
                 483.11 
                 1584.0 
                 482.80 
                 1584.5 
                 482.96 
                 C 
                 False 
               
               
                 6 
                 0.89 
                 1513.0 
                 461.16 
                 1511.0 
                 460.55 
                 1512.0 
                 460.86 
                 C 
                 False 
                 Delaminated 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 too much 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Test Round No. 7 
     In this test round, laminated ballistic barrier  22  target was approximately 0.145 m 2  (225 in 2 )  in  size, with an average thickness of 5.38 mm (0.210 in) and a weight of 0.842 kg (1.86 lbs.), with denier of 3000d. Average surface density was 5.96 kg/m 2  (1.22 lbs/ft 2 ). Test conditions were: obliquity, 0.0°; primary velocity location, 1.52 m (5 ft); range to target, 4.57 in (15 ft); target to witness 0.10 m (4 in); temperature, 21.1 ° C. (70 ° F.); barometric pressure 9.55 kPa (2.82 inHg); relative humidity; 44%. The witness was a thin sheet of aluminum (i.e., around 0.51 mm (0.020 in) of 2024T3 aluminum). Panels were clamped according to MIL-STD-662F. Laminated ballistic barrier  22  was subjected to testing in this manner with a 0.44 Magnum pistol with 240 gr Speer 4453 ammunition with Bullseye powder. 
     A summary of test results using three high and three low points as set forth below in Table 7 is: V 50 , (1527 ft/s); high partial, 455.83 m/s (1495.5 ft/s); and, low complete, 474.12 m/s (1555.5 ft/s). 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                 TABLE 7 
               
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Avg. 
                 Avg. 
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                 Shot 
                 Powder 
                 Vel. 1 
                 Vel. 1 
                 Vel. 2 
                 Vel. 2 
                 Vel. 
                 Vel. 
                   
                 Include 
               
               
                 No. 
                 (g) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 (ft/s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 (ft./s) 
                 (m/s) 
                 Result 
                 in V 50   
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 1 
                 0.87 
                 1481.0 
                 451.41 
                 1479.0 
                 450.80 
                 1480.0 
                 451.10 
                 P 
                 True 
                   
               
               
                 2 
                 0.90 
                 1496.0 
                 455.98 
                 1495.0 
                 455.68 
                 1495.5 
                 455.83 
                 P 
                 True 
               
               
                 3 
                 0.96 
                 1557.0 
                 474.57 
                 1554.0 
                 473.66 
                 1555.5 
                 474.12 
                 C 
                 True 
               
               
                 4 
                 0.97 
                 1576.0 
                 480.37 
                 1574.0 
                 479.76 
                 1575.0 
                 480.06 
                 C 
                 True 
               
               
                 5 
                 0.88 
                 1490.0 
                 454.15 
                 1488.0 
                 453.54 
                 1489.0 
                 453.85 
                 P 
                 True 
               
               
                 6 
                 0.98 
                 1574.0 
                 479.76 
                 1571.0 
                 478.84 
                 1572.5 
                 479.30 
                 C 
                 True 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Test Round No. 8 
     In this test round, laminated ballistic barrier  22  target was approximately 0.145 m 2  (225 in 2 )  in  size, with an average thickness of 5.8 mm (0.212 in) and a weight of 0.848 kg (1.87 l)s.), with denier of 3000d. Average density was (1.20 lbs/ft 2 ). Test conditions were: obliquity, 0.0°; primary velocity location, (5 ft); range to target; 15 ft; target to witness 4 in; temperature; 70 ° F.; barometric pressure 2.82 inHg; relative humidity; 44%. The witness was a thin sheet of aluminum (i.e., around 0.020 in of 2024T3 aluminum). Panels were clamped according to MIL-STD-662F. Laminated ballistic barrier  22  was subjected to testing in this manner with a .44 Magnum pistol with 240 gr Speer 4453 ammunition with Bullseye powder. 
     A summary of test results using two high and two low points as set forth below in Table 8 is: V 50 , 467.87 m/s (1535 ft/s); high partial, 476.55 m/s (1563.5 ft/s); and, low complete, 474.57 m/s (1557 ft/s). 
     In understanding the scope of the present invention, the term “comprising” and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, and/or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, and/or steps. The foregoing also applies to words having similar meanings such as the terms, “including,” “having” and their derivatives. Any terms of degree such as “substantially,” “about” and “approximate” as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. For example, these terms can be construed as including a deviation of at least ±5% of the modified term if this deviation would not negate the meaning of the word it modifies. 
     While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, the size, shape, location or orientation of the various components can be changed as needed and/or desired. Components that are shown directly connected or contacting each other can have intermediate structures disposed between them. The functions of one element can be performed by two, and vice versa. The structures and functions of one embodiment can be adapted to another embodiment. It should he noted that while the present invention is shown and described herein as it could be used in conjunction with a configuration of various components, it could the utilized with other configurations, either now known in the art or that may be developed in the future, so long as the objects and features of the invention are achieved, as would become apparent to persons having ordinary skill in the art after having become familiar with the teachings provided herein. Consequently, the present invention should not be regarded as limited to that shown and described herein. It is not necessary for all advantages to be present in a particular embodiment at the same time. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the embodiments according to the present invention are provided for illustration only, and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. 
     Having herein set forth preferred embodiments of the present invention, it is anticipated that suitable modifications can be made thereto which will nonetheless remain within the scope of the invention, including all changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalents. The invention shall therefore only be construed in accordance with the following claims: