JetForce Pack Uses Fan-Powered Balloons to Stay on Top of Avalanches

Oct-25-13 Just in time for winter, the re-usable Halo 28 JetForce pack features an airbag system that could help keep backcountry adventurers from being buried if caught in an avalanche.

Based on the knowledge that larger objects will rise to the top of a snowslide, the trigger-operated system features a fan that spins at 60,000 RPM to instantly fill the 200-liter airbag balloon. Once the balloon has been filled, the fan will pulse to keep it filled for about two minutes, giving the wearer a better chance of staying on top of the slide. Made from silicone-coated nylon with mechanical stretch, the balloon is more tear-resistant than typical models, and the fan is powerful enough to keep it fully inflated even if it does tear.

The fan will reverse to deflate the balloon after three minutes, and the rechargeable battery can inflate the system four times—although if you have already been caught in one avalanche it might be time to come off the mountain.

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[POPSCI.COM]
[BACKCOUNTRY]

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