The Institute of Security Technologies MORATEX is implementing the partnership project “Science4Business – Science for Business” in a consortium of:

• Gdynia Maritime University (Leader),
• University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn,
• Kazimierz Wielki University in Bydgoszcz,
• Institute of Horticulture – National Research Institute

The project will involve R&D work based on research results with identified commercial potential under Task 1 “Development Incubator.” Below are the assumptions of the first proposal selected by the ITB “MORATEX”:

Head protection for children with neurological problems.

The project will develop the design and technology of a head protection product intended for children with neurological problems. The essence of the solution is the selection of soft and flexible polymer materials with open- or closed-cell structures (foam materials), along with thermoformed polymer materials in the form of molds. When combined appropriately, they will create a material capable of absorbing the impact of an uncontrolled fall. The challenge of the project will be to combine high protective requirements (impact absorption, effectiveness, and durability of the fastening system), while ensuring comfort and ease of use, as well as facilitating the maintenance of the finished product.

The innovative element of the proposed solution is its unconventional construction and design, which will allow for the combination of safety aspects and a non-stigmatizing appearance. A new feature will be the use of a system of replaceable impact-absorbing inserts in the form of composite molds, consisting of a rigid thermoformed layer with a profile tailored to the location in the structure and a flexible layer made of appropriate polymer materials. The rigid elements will distribute the impact force over a larger surface area of ​​the protector and absorb the impact force. A new feature will be the ability to replace the inserts depending on their degree of wear or damage.

The innovative nature and advantage of this solution over similar solutions also lies in the approach to research methodology. The study planned to determine the HIC parameter, which assesses the risk of head injury, which serves as a criterion for tolerating head injuries caused by impacts. The threshold value of the HIC parameter for a pulse duration of 15 ms (so-called HIC15), for which the risk of suffering a serious head injury is less than 10%, depends on the age of the individuals involved in the accident.

The total cost of the project is: 499,998.84 PLN.