720635Seactive - Developing a Prototype Airloop Suspension SeatClosedGRD Development of PrototypeInnovate UKFor the past 4 years Seactive has been developing the Airloop, a novel concept for a suspension seat. In 2014 we were awarded two Smart projects; a proof of market project and a proof of concept project to progress our technology development plan. Successful outcomes have provided the knowledge that we our concept works and that there is a market opportunity for it. Now we need to develop a pre-production prototype of the Airloop that can be tested in relevant environments to validate its performance. In the same way that the performance of modern fighter jets has overtaken that of the pilots, the introduction of lightweight high strength materials and structures, and high performance engines has resulted in fast craft that can withstand extreme marine environments better than the crewmembers. Consequently, crewmembers have become the limiting factor. Fast craft operating in the open ocean are subject to large shock and vibration forces. Exposure to such forces can lead to discomfort and injury, especially musculoskeletal injuries. Seactive have developed a new suspended seat mechanism – Airloop - which will be a lightweight, low part count, retrofittable seat that will dramatically reduce the shock and vibration experienced by boat users . Currently suspended seats are heavy, expensive and only partially effective. Travelling in high speed boats is uncomfortable and can cause many injuries including internal bleeding and back problems with the jarring over waves.