CHALLENGE
Speed can be a lifesaving factor in special military operations, but riding in the high-performance boats used to deploy naval special warfare teams has been compared to experiencing a vertical car crash. Repeated wave impact can subject crewmen and Navy SEALS to an ongoing series of severe mechanical shocks during such operations, placing them at risk of injury and fatigue, and potentially compromising their ability to successfully complete the mission at hand.
SOLUTION
In support of Active Shock, Inc., working for the U.S. Special Operations Command, Battelle has helped develop a shock-mitigating seat for the 11-meter Naval Special Warfare Rigid-hull Inflatable Boat (NSW RIB). The team first performed an ergonomics and medical literature survey to determine the best way to align the legs, pelvis, spine, neck and head to minimize the risk of injury from wave impacts. Human engineering experts then designed an adjustable seat that puts the boat operator and passengers in a more vertical posture that resembles that of a person riding a horse, or motorcycle, so they can better deal with the up and down motion created by the impact of waves. Limited deck space presented an additional challenge for developing an ergonomic seat posture that could accommodate all rider positions. Appropriate design dimensions, ranges-of-motion and dampening rates were developed for the seat, and detailed engineering drawings were prepared. After approval by the Special Operations Command, prototypes were built, and Battelle redesigned the NSW RIB's instrument console to be easily accessible from the new seat position. At-sea testing to compare the new shock-mitigating seat with existing seats will be conducted.
BENEFITS
The successful integration of shock-mitigating seats into the 11-meter NSW RIB boat will preserve the combat benefits of speedy deployment while reducing the possibility of injury for Special Warfare Combatant-craft crewmen and Navy SEALS. Ultimately, the program will improve the ability of special operations teams to survive and successfully complete their missions.