According to the designers, OFW is an integrated soldier ensemble which includes a multi-layer garment with embedded physiological sensors and heating/cooling technology. In addition, OFW contains soft textile ballistic protection for small arms fire and shrapnel, a load bearing ceramic armor plate vest for protection against high-velocity ballistics, and a soldier-mounted computer for navigation and communication.

“Wound management technology consists of four tourniquets built into the garment, one on each limb, that can be actuated when an injury is sustained,” commented Matthew Marzynski, Senior Industrial Designer at HLB and OFW project manager. “The soldierÕs on-board communication system can then be set to automatically signal medics so that they can prioritize triage. Embedded textile-level sensors that measure the quantity and severity of blood loss are under development and slated for future generation.”

The IFAI award was given primarily for the innovative application of advanced fabrics, according to Matthew. Passive microclimate design, such as incorporation of high-wicking and high-insulation fibers, and active technology, such as embedded electric heating and air conditioning, make the OFW ensemble a wearable showcase of advanced textile engineering. Specialty fabrics were also integrated into key areas, such as super-thin ballistic resistant panels, puncture/abrasion resistant panels, and a laminated semi-permeable membrane for nuclear, biological and chemical protection.

“And OFW is not just this ensemble, but rather a long-term program the Army is on track to field beginning in 2010,” Matthew continued. “The total OFW program is composed of troops wearing the ensemble, robotically controlled ground and air vehicles, semi-autonomous weapons, and completely re-designed communications structures. ItÕs a very prestigious and highly funded program the goes far beyond just this one design Ð and HLBÕs contributions are to a body of work that will get exposure to the highest levels of government.”

The Objective Force Warrior and the other International Achievement Award winners were featured in a recent issue of Technical Textiles International magazine (www.technical-textiles.net).