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A windblast protection device that uses high-strength, deployable fabric panels was tested. The panels capture and slow the aerodynamic flow impinging on the ejection seat occupant's extremities and torso and reduce the probability of injury caused by windblast. Wind tunnel tests were conducted in low-and high-speed wind tunnels using one-half scale models of a fiftieth-percentile size male crewmember and ejection seat. Measurements taken included forces and moments acting on the crewmember'sarms, legs, and head; total forces and moments on the crewmember and seat model; and static pressure on the surface of the crewmember and flow-stagnation panels. Additional tests were accomplished to measure full-scale static aerodynamic coefficients of various flow-stagnation panels. These tests were accomplished with volunteer subjects and a modified ejection seat. This paper reviews the current tests accomplished using the flow-stagnation concept as well as tests utilizing the concept 25 and 45 years ago. Successful application of the flow-stagnation concept is a promising candidate solution to the problem of windblast protection.

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