ARMR Systems

ARMR Systems, a company established in 2017, focuses on developing hemorrhage control systems to enhance the survival rates from traumatic injuries in austere environments, particularly on the battlefield. The firm's genesis is tied to the personal experiences of its founder, Chibueze Ihenacho, who, after a friend suffered from a non-compressible torso wound, identified a critical gap in available medical technology. Ihenacho's background as a pre-med student at Rice University, combined with his subsequent experience in medical device development and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, provided the foundation for tackling this challenge.

The company's core product is the Armor-V, a wearable device designed to apply immediate and sustained pressure to control bleeding from junctional wounds in the abdomen, groin, and shoulder areas. This device is engineered for rapid, one-handed application, a crucial feature for soldiers who may be injured and alone. It is designed to be worn under body armor, allowing for pre-positioning and immediate activation when an injury occurs. The system provides a hands-free solution, enabling the injured individual to remain mobile and engaged if necessary, while also freeing up medics to attend to other casualties.

ARMR Systems operates within the defense and medical technology markets, targeting military units, combat medics, and first responders as its primary clients. The business model centers on the sale of these life-saving devices directly to governmental and military organizations. The company has secured funding through various channels, including Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contracts with the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force, as well as investments from venture capital sources. These contracts and investments underscore the recognized need for such a device and provide the capital for further development, testing, and manufacturing. The company has also participated in several accelerator programs, including those hosted by the University of Chicago's Polsky Center and MATTER, which have been instrumental in its growth and product refinement.

Keywords: hemorrhage control, battlefield medicine, trauma care, medical devices, defense technology, wearable systems, junctional wounds, military equipment, first responders, SBIR contracts