Galvion, a world leader in power and data management solutions and innovative head protection systems, is introducing E.D.G™ (Energy Data Grid; pronounced “edge”), a modular and scalable power and data distribution and management system for headborne accessories. The introduction coincides with Shot Show 2024 taking place in Las Vegas, USA, 23-26 January 2024, where Galvion will be exhibiting E.D.G, alongside their other products, on Booth 32003.
Galvion’s E.D.G headborne system has been developed in response to the continuing and escalating power and data needs of the warfighter. Developed over multiple years, the scalable power solution was first introduced on Galvion’s PDxT™ helmet platform to meet the operational needs of the United States Marine Corps as a part of the Marine Corps Systems Command (MCSC) Integrated Helmet System (IHS) Other Transaction Agreement (OTA). Designed through an iterative development cycle, incorporating real-time feedback from USMC trials throughout the process, the E.D.G system represents a critical step in transitioning from a protective ‘helmet’ to an ‘integrated helmet system’ that enhances lethality and survivability. In response to similar operational needs across multiple global customers and end-users, the E.D.G system will be available for Galvion’s flagship Batlskin Caiman® head system, and when released for full production, the flexible and scalable power system can be retrofitted to a fielded helmet or delivered as a fully assembled helmet system.
The E.D.G system includes the Base Power Pack, powered by a single CR123 battery, and an attachable Extended Power Pack that accommodates a minimum of two and up to six AA batteries, boosting power availability and delivery when needed, but removeable to lighten the load when not.
The system also features a battery-powered strobe and VAS connection point, ready for emerging technologies like AR and VR. It features an independent task light and evolved rails with integrated cable management and storage. An innovative feature of this system is the state-of-charge indicators on the Extended Power Pack, also viewable in the NVG display, ensuring operators know how much power they have available at all times.
Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion, said: “We are heavily invested in preparing our military and tactical teams to meet the ever-evolving technology and equipment demands of the modern battlefield. We work with tier 1 customers every day and see the challenges coming with the proliferation of headborne accessories and capabilities. Managing their power and data needs is a critical part of that. The E.D.G system represents a united effort across Galvion’s power & data, industrial design, human performance, and head systems teams to develop a user-focused solution, and we’re excited to introduce this capability to our global customer base.” He added: “With more and more of our Caiman® helmets out in the field, this retrofittable power system represents an upgrade path for existing systems or is of course available on a fully kitted new head system. We’re also excited about the future opportunity to include E.D.G in our NSPA framework contract so our multiple NATO customers can more easily access this technology and capability”.
