Protective Equipment Research & Development
Engineering the Protection Problem
Companies seeking an engineering partner to investigate, prototype and develop new protection concepts need protection that works in the real conditions of the job. For this audience, the main challenges include uncertain technical requirements, new applications, complex integration and product-development risk. A body armour system can only add value when people can move naturally, wear it for the required shift and maintain confidence in the fit and coverage.
Vikela develops protective equipment research and development using advanced 3D-printing technology and an engineering-led approach to fit, flexibility and weight reduction. The APIS range is designed for protection against bladed knife and spike impacts while remaining flexible and comfortable. APIS Gold is stated as tested to Home Office Level Two and APIS Silver to Home Office Level One, with Gold, Silver, Bronze and custom/replacement options available.
Why Additive Manufacturing Changes the Design Space
For companies seeking an engineering partner to investigate, prototype and develop new protection concepts, the practical advantage is design engineering team, prototype development, in-house processing and customer-led problem solving. Vikela can supply protection for overt or covert carriers, and replacement plates can be produced for compatible existing carrier systems when dimensions are provided. This can help organisations upgrade the protection element without automatically replacing every part of an existing vest system.
Fit should be treated as a core part of the protection decision. Vikela’s flexible structure is intended to contour more naturally to the wearer, and the company specifically focuses on improving fit for women rather than treating female wearers as smaller versions of men. For teams with a mix of body shapes and working patterns, this makes wearer evaluation, sizing and comfort an important part of procurement. APIS is currently positioned around knife, stab and spike protection. Where a requirement includes ballistic threats, the protection specification should be discussed separately and supported by the appropriate product evidence and test data.
From Prototype to Bespoke Production
Vikela works with R&D managers, product owners, innovation teams and technical directors. Products are designed and manufactured in Northern Ireland, with access to the engineering team for custom requirements and R&D. If you are reviewing body armour for a team, replacing existing protection plates or investigating a bespoke solution, speak to Vikela about the wearer group, operating environment, carrier requirement, protection level and evaluation process.