Modeling Integrated Helmets for Aviation

Computational speed and hardware costs are no longer significant barriers to running complex simulations. Recent advances in non-linear finite element analysis (FEA) make it feasible to study complex interactions between protective equipment and the humanbody. VSI has devoted several years to developing realistic computer models of human heads for studying the contact interface between the face and protective masks like the M40. This effort has proven to be successful and has resulted in the ability toevaluate fit both visually and quantitatively in terms of contact pressures, deflections, and stresses. Similar to protective masks, understanding the interface between helmets and the human head is necessary to ensure proper fit with regard to Comfort,Protection, Performance and Compatibility (CPPC). These fit related issues are critical to current and future helmet designs. VSI proposes to leverage its prior research experience in developing FEA models of headforms and protective masks to develop aninnovative system for studying how various helmet features and design parameters effect CPPC in aviator and other integrated helmet systems. The proposed research will utilize existing 3-dimensional human databases such as CAESAR to develop a largeindividual headform population and a few boundary figure headforms for simulated helmet testing. Optimal fit and protection of commercial helmet systems are essential in order to promote use and to minimize injury. Manufacturers of bicycle, motorcycle,football, hockey, skiing, aviation and a multitude of other type of protective helmets devote extensive amounts of time and money attempting to improve fit and performance of their helmets. The majority of this development is done by trial and error. Theproposed research will result in a powerful simulation tool that can be used to evaluate and optimize new and existing helmet designs without the need for costly prototyping and experimental testing.