Evaluating the Performance of a Hockey Helmet in Mitigating Concussion Risk Using Measures of Acceleration and Energy During Simulated Free Fall

Abstract

Hockey helmets represent the best form of head protection available to reduce the occurrence of skull fracture and concussion. Currently, helmet testing protocols focus on the reduction of peak linear acceleration measures. Gaps exist in analyzing how certain impact factors such as angle, neck stiffness, and location influence the energy loaded to the helmet and the risk of injury during head collisions. This study examined the effect of helmet impact angle, neck stiffness-torque levels, and helmet impact locations on energy reduction and risk of head injury grounded on acceleration measures using simulated free fall head collisions. The researchers conducted 540 impacts to collect the data. The results revealed statistical interaction effects between the angle of impact and location on measures of energy and risk of head injury. This study builds on existing literature by introducing an energy measurement technique to assess helmet performance. The outcome also provides an avenue for helmet manufacturers to evaluate the performance of the helmet in reducing concussion risk.