armoured vehicles - vibration and noise isolation (APC floor mats)
Comments made by commanders of the Army M113 armoured personnel carrier have resulted in a leading defence contract manufacturer applying new technology to overcome an operational fatigue problem.
Mackay Defence Technologies, a specialist rubber compound manufacturer which has been manufacturing products for the defence industry since 1940, was challenged to find a solution to the problem of leg and foot fatigue suffered by vehicle commanders while on duty in the turret of the M113 APC vehicle.
High frequency vibration in the all-metal turret platform has been overcome with the development of a simple raised button mat. A hollow section under each button acts as a cushion, absorbing the vibration and at the same time providing the commander with much greater under foot stability and traction.
Each mat is designed to fit precisely over the turret platform with a return that holds it securely in place.
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Mackay Defence Technologies has developed a simple raised button mat with a hollow section under each button which overcomes the high-frequency vibration in the all-metal turret platform of the M113 APC. |
The design absorbs the vibration, and provides the commander with much greater under foot stability and traction. The rubber formulation is a fire retardant material with a high resistance to oil. |
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As of August of 2005, some 300 M113 have been progressively fitted out with these mats. |
 Team Australia - Mackay Defence Technologies
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