Hi! I'm Erik Chappell, a Research Mechanical Engineer for the U.S. Army Engineering Research and Development Center (ERDC)

Portfolio

As an Army researcher, a portion of my project work is sensitive. However, I have attempted to provide non-sensitive details related to my research work. Please reach out to me if you have any questions about my work.

RAPID - Ready Armor Protection for Instant Deployment

I am a co-inventor of the patented barrier system RAPID or Ready Armor Protection for Instant Deployment. The RAPID barrier system is a blast, ballistic, and vehicle threat mitigation barrier developed for deployment in urban environments. I designed the first 3-D CAD models of the system and oversaw RAPID's production, from the first prototypes to its final completed version. I collaborated with other scientists in testing the barrier against blast, ballistic, and vehicular threats, publishing two technical reports, submitting one journal article (in review), and receiving one U.S. Patent No. 10,775,138. A video with more information about the RAPID system can be found at the following link: RAPID system overview

Confidential Project #1

I led a project funded by the Army to design an unconvential protection system that obfuscated enemy intelligence. I first designed the system in the 3-D CAD software Solidworks and then lead production of the prototype. I machined all major componets of the protective system. We conducted research and experimentation with new finishing techniques so that the protection system could operate effectively in harsh environments.

Confidential Project #2

I am co-leading a project funded by the Marines to design an unconvential protection system that obfuscated enemy intelligence. I first designed the system in the 3-D CAD software Solidworks and then oversaw production of the prototype. After testing the prototype we found that the first iteration was unsuccesful in meeting mission objectives. We then had to modify the protection system and we plan to reevaluate its effectiveness in the coming months.

Confidential Project #3

I am leading a project funded by the Army to design an unconvential protection system that obfuscated enemy intelligence. I first designed the system in the 3-D CAD software Solidworks and am working with technican specialists that will assist in the prototyping phase of the protection system. This will be a huge prototyping effort where I will take on most of the CNC machining and I will oversee all phases of production.

Dog Harness

I designed and created a dog harness for my high energy children and pet. The harness is made from PVC pipe and climbing rope. While the harness works great, the wagon was made for offroad surfaces so the ride at times can be a bit rough, which the kids seem to enjoy.

About Me

I am a Research Mechanical Engineer for the U.S. Amry Research and Development Center (ERDC). I have been with ERDC for 6 years in total as first a student intern and then later a permanent Federal employee, and have loved every minute of it. My work has been primarily focused on designing blast and ballistic mitigation barriers, and prototyping of unconventional protection systems. I graduated from Brigham Young University - Idaho with a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, and seeking to pursue graduate education in Rapid Prototyping. I live in Clinton, Mississippi and my wife and I are proud parents of 2 amazing boys. I love playing soccer, pickleball, traveling, spending time with my family and participating in my local church.

Contact

Address: Clinton, MS

Email: erikchap1@hotmail.com

Work Email: erik.m.chappell@erdc.dren.mil