Modeling of composite combat helmet subjected to blunt impacts

Abstract

Combat helmets are a complex system that is crucial for users in different adverse scenarios. Historically, the primary focus in the development of these items has been on compliance with high-velocity impact requirements, such as bullets or blast loads. In recent years, the investigation of blunt impact scenarios has gained momentum. Consequently, standards have been updated; however, they still lack a consolidated methodology for assessing helmet safety. A virtual testing approach is designed to replicate experimental tests. The main advantage of this model is its ability to assess loading conditions of interest and evaluate existing engineering solutions against new standards requirements.