The integrated blast effects sensor suite: a rapidly developed, complex, system of systems

Area of Science:

• Military Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering
• Systems Engineering

Background:

• Growing concern over traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in deployed U.S. service members.
• Need for effective data collection systems to understand TBI causes and impacts.
• Previous limitations in soldier-centric data gathering for blast exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To rapidly develop and deploy a system for gathering soldier-centric data related to blast exposure.
• To address the U.S. Army Rapid Equipping Force's need for TBI monitoring solutions.
• To inform future developments in TBI prevention and management for military personnel.

Main Methods:

• Rapid systems engineering approach utilizing iterative development and testing.
• Integration of vehicle systems, soldier-worn headset and torso sensor systems.
• Deployment of the Integrated Blast Effects Sensor Suite for operational assessment in Afghanistan.

Main Results:

• Successful deployment of an integrated system of systems to troops in Afghanistan.
• Gathering of relevant soldier-centric data on blast effects.
• Identification of unique findings and lessons learned during the development and deployment process.

Conclusions:

• The Integrated Blast Effects Sensor Suite development provided valuable insights into TBI data collection.
• Iterative development and systems engineering are effective for rapid deployment of military technology.
• Lessons learned should guide future advancements in soldier protection and injury assessment systems.