New Age Silicone Armor

A new product by Dow Corning called Deflexion will be the future of high performance protective textiles.  This silicone material remains soft and flexible under normal conditions, but when an impact occurs the material absorbs and disperses the shock.  Basically, this material provided protection with out the stiffness of conventional padding.

Currently there are a number of applications for this new silicone technology.  It is currently being used as motorcycle gear, sport's goalie pads, soccer shin guards, computer and electronics cases, reinforced luggage, skateboarding shoes and a number of other  markets.  In the future it is even possible that the military will be interested in using this technology as body armor in combat.

The Real Rocket Man

On November 5, 2010 a Swiss man, Yves Rossy, performed the world's first aerial loops by the power of a jet pack.  The idea of small compact jet packs worn on an individuals back has been seen in such movies as  "The Rocketeer", "Star Wars" and "Thunderball."  All of this movies depict the pilot flying through the air with ease with complete control of this flying machine.  Until now this has been pretty far from the truth.  

Yves Rossy and the RAUG Company have been working together to create new versions of the jet-pack  to become more aerodynamic and stable.  In 2008 Rossy flew across the English Channel but the recent advances in design have allowed him to perform his first aerial acrobatics. As seen in the picture above the jet pack is not quite as small and agile as many films depict.  As the technology of this jet propulsion advances it will definitely catch the interest on military, thrill seekers, and possibly even the transportation industry.