Since developing its first impact protection material in 2002, D3O has expanded both its range of products and international markets by constant product development and attention to product performance and quality.
As its products are used in soft body armour for motorcycling, skiing and other sports, as well as industrial and military applications consistent quality control is absolutely essential.
From its earliest days, D3O’s laboratory has used Kistler Instruments’ sensors for product development testing and quality control.
Currently, the company uses a triaxial accelerometer and a force sensor specially calibrated to 25 kN, both by Kistler, in an impact test rig used by the company’s development department. The test rig specification is defined by BS EN 1621-1:2012 requirements and test methods for motorcyclists' clothing to protect against mechanical impact, especially limb joint impact protectors.
Process Development Manager, Chris Meadows explains that D3O has always used Kistler sensors for product testing since the very beginning. Reliable and accurate testing is essential, not only to meet the British Standard but also to ensure that the company’s products always provide the protection needed in what might be life threatening situations.
As D3O continues to expand into new market sectors ranging from skiwear and laptop cases to military applications, quality assurance is paramount to maintain the company’s hard won reputation for the highest quality and consistent performance. The reliability and precision of Kistler’s sensors is helping D3O meet the demanding standards of new markets and applications.
Kistler Group
The Swiss-based Kistler Group is a leading global supplier of dynamic measurement technology for pressure, force, torque and acceleration. Kistler’s technology is used to analyse physical processes, control industrial processes and optimize product quality.
Kistler has a full range of sensors, electronics and systems for engine development, vehicle technology, assembly technology, plastic and metal processing as well as for biomechanics.
The Group maintains its global presence through 26 sales and manufacturing companies, with tech centres on all continents and more than 30 agencies, enabling the Group to maintain local contact with customers and offer individualized application support.
The Kistler Group employs 1,250 people worldwide and generated revenues of CHF 285 million (GBP 193.5M) in 2013.