Computational analysis and design of components of protective helmets

Abstract

Computer methods can assist in understanding the behaviour of the individual components of a helmet, beyond merely the headform output as is usually done in a laboratory environment or for test-house certification purposes. This design study uses a method that we have previously used to analyse the effects of helmet liner material properties. While the helmet liner is of vital importance for energy absorption, other design modifications can also serve to improve its performance. The equestrian helmet model previously developed and analysed by the authors was used in this study. The helmet shell and geometric factors, such as a gap between the liner and shell, ventilation holes and ridges on the helmet liner were studied to observe their influence on helmet performance. By studying helmet design variations in terms of different variables other than headform linear acceleration, it is possible to determine which helmet configurations perform better, why they perform the way they do and how efficiently they perform. This can assist the product design and optimization process by suggesting models which would optimize cost, weight and helmet size.