Browse Topic: Helmets

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Customized Pilot Cervical Spine Protection Orthosis DevelopmentF-0080-2024-10765/7/2024
Pilots and crew of rotary-wing aircraft can be exposed to inertial and task position stressors that generate pain. Repeated painful exposures with or without tissue damage are precursors to pain sensitization and chronic pain. Chronic pain leads to reduced operational readiness and long-term medical treatment. This study investigated protection orthosis for unrecoverable effects on the cervical spine by heavy helmets and accessories. A user-customized product has been developed and customization has been intended to be done with multi-body dynamic modeling and testing. Although there are many biomechanical models of the human cervical spine in the literature, their analysis capabilities to perform modal analysis and frequency response analysis are limited. Especially for Rotary-wing applications, models with such capabilities will play an essential role in diagnosing and rehabilitating musculoskeletal disorders and designing engineering devices to prevent and heal cervical spine injuries. Therefore, a detailed head-cervical spine model is developed in which frequency domain analysis is possible. Alternative design solutions have been investigated to support helmets to decrease the load exerted on the neck periphery. Finally, tests have been performed to correlate analysis with a real helicopter environment. At the end of the study, a customizable neck orthosis has been developed and verified with the tests that it reduces the adverse effects of heavy helmets on the cervical spine periphery.
Isci, Hakan, Heidari, Nima, ünal, Ramazan, Şendur, Polat, Gezegen, Damla
Safer Helmets Reduce Potential for Traumatic InjuryTBMG-360072/1/2020
“Seventy-five percent of all fatal motorcycle accidents globally involve brain injury, with rotational forces acting on the brain being the primary cause of death,” According to NHTSA. By implementing a novel helmet design and materials set, KIRSH Helmets is to working to develop a more effective helmet for motorcycle riders, as well as in other applications. A patented design, in which fluid displacement technology replaces the typically used foam compression, utilizes a silicone liner injected with fluid. The resulting structure reduces rotational and angular forces during acceleration impacts.
5 Ws of Microlattice Pads for Improved HelmetsTBMG-359842/1/2020
Football players and other athletes, motorcycle riders, soldiers, and anyone wearing protective helmets made with the new microlattice pads will have greater protection from both single hits and a series of impacts.
Comparison of Two Visual Symbology Sets in Rotary-Wing AircraftF-0075-2019-145605/13/2019
Two sets of visual symbology in conjunction with two display types (helmet mounted and panel mounted) were examined for their usability in maintaining flight performance within a simulated degraded visual environment. Eight rated Army Aviators completed a series of flights using the two symbology sets with each display type. Flight performance data was collected and used to assess performance resulting from symbology and display used. Overall, the assessment found one symbology set to result in better performance across several phases of flight and no significant differences due to display type, although a few interactions between symbol set and display type are noted.
Feltman, Kathryn, Bernhardt, Kyle, Hayes, Amanda
Behavior of Electric Scooter Operators in Naturalistic Environments2019-01-10074/2/2019
The use of electric scooters (e-scooters), which are more generally categorized as motorized scooters, has undergone explosive growth owing to “scooter share” programs in which an e-scooter is rented for a limited period of time. The near-spontaneous ubiquity of e-scooters has prompted government and scooter share companies to address issues partly motivated by concerns related to the inclusion of a large population of e-scooters into vehicular traffic. These issues are influenced by the decisions and behaviors of the scooter operators, who, despite being licensed to drive passenger vehicles, potentially have limited experience operating an e-scooter in the presence of traffic. E-scooters are in a relative unique position where they are small enough to negotiate pedestrian traffic, yet fast enough to travel on roadways. This enables an e-scooter operator to change when and where he rides, e.g., from traveling on a sidewalk to riding in a clear traffic lane in order to avoid a group of pedestrians standing at an intersection. Such changes may catch nearby motorists off-guard, thereby increasing the risk of a collision with the e-scooter. The present observational study assessed e-scooter rider behavior in west Los Angeles, a region with a robust presence of rental e-scooters. The large population, preponderance of e-scooters, and high traffic volumes provide an exemplary area to observe not just how drivers and e-scooter riders adapt to one-another’s presence, but also the increased risk of an interaction between e-scooters with other vehicles and pedestrians. Operator behavior of rented e-scooters is quantified and reviewed according to current regulations, public concerns regarding e-scooters, and behaviors present that may affect an individual’s ability to safely operate an e-scooter in the presence of traffic, including both vehicular and pedestrian.
Todd, Jay, Krauss, David, Zimmermann, Jacqueline, Dunning, Amber
Inter-Laboratory Combat Helmet Blunt Impact Test Method ComparisonTBMG-327268/1/2018
As the medical community learns more about brain injury, the importance of blunt impact mitigation becomes more apparent. As such, it is critical to make sure that research labs are not only capable of performing testing in this field, but also show inter-laboratory consistency and reproducibility. This study is a comparison between the two validated blunt impact testing labs (Aberdeen Test Center (ATC) and National Technical Systems (NTS) Chesapeake Testing Services (CTS)), and Natick Soldier Research Development and Engineering Center (NSRDEC).
Tech Briefs: August 201818AERP088/1/2018
Designing a High-Speed Decoy Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Using Thermoplastics in Aerospace Applications In-Flight Real-Time Avionics Adaptation Using Turbine Flow Meters for Aerospace Test and Measurement Applications Communicating from Space: The Front End of Multiscale Modeling Laser-Based System Could Expand Space-to-Ground Communication Hydraulic Testing of Polymer Matrix Composite 102mm Tube Section Research could lead to development of a composite material that can be processed at a low temperature and still be used at 1000°F. Permeation Tests on Polypropylene Fiber Materials Study attempts to determine if polypropylene nanofiber materials can be used in air filtration systems to remove toxic vapors. Inter-Laboratory Combat Helmet Blunt Impact Test Method Comparison Ensuring consistent test methods could reduce the risk of head injuries.
Evaluation of Aircrew Noise Exposure Levels on a Canadian CH-147F Chinook HelicopterF-0072-2016-114215/17/2016
The cabin and cockpit noise levels of a Royal Canadian Air Force CH-147F Chinook medium to heavy lift utility helicopter were evaluated in this study. The sound pressure levels were measured at nine aircrew locations through 43 unique and representative flight and ground conditions in accordance with the ISO 5129:2001 standard. Additionally, the performance of a combination of currently in service helmets and headsets were evaluated in accordance with the ANSI Standard S12.42. The hearing protection performance results were used in combination with the measured sound pressure levels to evaluate the performance of the hearing protection in the context of the CH-147F noise environment. Results showed that the David Clark headsets equipped with active noise reduction provided the most superior hearing protection. The maximum exposure limit duration was calculated for each microphone location, hearing protector performance and flight condition combination. It was found that the David Clark headsets provided sufficient protection for an unlimited duration of exposure for an individual with a properly fitted headset. It was also found that improperly fitted hearing protection could result in an increased risk of hearing damage after merely 18 seconds.
Price, Andrew, Ghinet, Sebastian, Chen, Yong, Wickramasinghe, Viresh, Grewal, Anant
Spoilers Optimization to Reduce the Induced Stresses on a Racing Helmet2016-01-16124/5/2016
Aerodynamics is one of the most important factors in the development of racing cars. At the speeds of formula cars reach the formula cars, the driver's neck can be subjected to stresses resulting from the aerodynamic forces acting on the helmet; developing an aerodynamic project that takes into account the comfort of the driver without affecting performance is certainly considered a challenging activity. The aim of the present work is to develop a low-pitching-momenthelmet for formula racing cars optimizing the shape and location, applying some aerodynamic appendices. This goal is pursued by adopting an approach based on both experimental and numerical activities. First, the aerodynamic configuration of an existing helmet was examined; through a testing campaign in the wind tunnel facilities of Perugia University, pressures acting on the helmet were scanned at various speeds and data about aerodynamic drag were collected. Flow visualization methods were even performed to locate the separation of the fluid flow from the helmet. Based on experimental results a validated mathematical model of the helmet was implemented to perform numerical analysis using the CFD/3D package Star-CCM+. The model was used to analyze the configuration of the flow around the helmet in the actual case that the helmet is inserted in the formula vehicle. Finally, a CFD/3D optimization was set up to obtain geometry optimization of the appendices of the helmet, as a function of the proposed target. All the steady state CFD analysis was carried out using the k-ω RANS turbulent model.
Mariani, Francesco, Risi, Francesco, Bartolini, Nicola, Castellani, Francesco, Scappaticci, Lorenzo
Tactical Fighting System SimulatorTBMG-198272/1/2014
Environmental Tectonics Corporation Southampton, PA 215-355-9100
R&D Roundup: NovemberTBMG-1769811/1/2013
A team of researchers at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago has revealed clinical applications for the world’s first thought-controlled bionic vleg—a significant milestone for lower limb amputees in the rapidly growing field of bionics. Neural signals were used to safely improve limb control of the leg, which features intelligent engineering, meaning that it can learn and perform activities including seamless transitions between sitting, walking, ascending, and descending stairs and ramps and repositioning the leg while seated.
F-16 Full Mission TrainersTBMG-170248/1/2013
L-3 Communications announced that its Link Simulation & Training (L-3 Link) division has been awarded a contract from the U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center at Wright- Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, Ohio. The company will build two F-16 Block 52 Full Mission Trainers (FMTs) for the Iraqi Air Force.
Realistic Simulation Makes Army Helmets SaferTBMG-1146210/1/2011
As materials, ergonomic design, and ballistics protection have evolved, the U.S. Army helmet has improved in form and function, from the M1 of WWII, to the 29-layer Kevlar PASGT (Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops), to finally the lighter Kevlar/Twaron ACH (Advanced Combat Helmet) design of today (Figure 1). Helmet liners have progressed too, from compressed paper fibers, plastic, and rayon in the early days to more sophisticated suspension-webbing systems with chin straps constructed from stronger synthetics.
Forehead-Mounted Sensor Measures Oxygen Saturation for Hypoxia Early Detection and WarningTBMG-855610/1/2010
Symptoms of hypoxia – a deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching body tissues - have been documented among rotary-wing pilots and aircrew flying at altitudes as low as 8,000 feet. Effective hypoxia-related mishap prevention relies upon rapid recognition of hypoxia symptoms and expeditious execution of emergency procedures. This is particularly challenging in rotary wing aircraft, where the lack of adequate training makes reliance on hypoxia self-detection an ineffective solution. An automated warning would be preferable, but currently no military aviation platform is outfitted with a physiological monitoring system to alert pilots and aircrew of impending hypoxic episodes.
Fluid Helmet Liner for Protection Against Blast-Induced Traumatic Brain InjuryTBMG-82658/1/2010
An Advanced Combat Helmet liner design uses the novel idea of including filler materials inside channels in the liner. An energy-absorbing foam was selected for the main liner structure, and several filler material candidates of widely varying properties are being considered. To date, material has been evaluated both experimentally and numerically. Numerical studies will include coupled simulations with a detailed finite element head model, providing insight into the effect of the new liner on the brain’s response to a blast wave impact.
Jaw Loading Response of Current ATDs2009-01-03884/20/2009
Biomechanical surrogates are used in various forms to study head impact response in automotive applications and for assessing helmet performance. Surrogate headforms include those from the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) and the many variants of the Hybrid III. However, the response of these surrogates to loading at the chin and how that response may affect the loads transferred from the jaw to the rest of the head are unknown. To address part of that question, the current study compares the chin impact response performance of select human surrogates to that of the cadaver. A selection of Hybrid III and NOCSAE based surrogates with fixed and articulating jaws were tested under drop mass impact conditions that were used to describe post mortem human subject (PMHS) response to impacts at the chin (Craig et al., 2008). Results were compared to the PMHS response with cumulative variance technique (Rhule et al., 2002). A Hybrid III based surrogate headform with an articulating jaw demonstrated the best overall performance of the surrogates evaluated.
Craig, Matthew J., Viano, David C., Bir, Cynthia A.
Wireless Acceleration and Impact Recording Chips2008-01-297912/2/2008
This paper presents an overview of a new class of wireless acceleration sensor chips being developed by Evigia Systems and Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) that can record the magnitude and duration of exposure to external impact without requiring any battery or any other external power source. The combination of the magnitude and duration of the acceleration event provides the information needed for quantification of the impact energy after extracting the recorded data from the sensor array. The light-weight, small form-factor, and wireless link features of these chips enables them to be readily inserted in earplugs, helmets, protective gear, on sections of vehicles. Further, their low cost, make them well suited for the Go-Kart, Sprint Car, Rally and Motocross races where the budgets are lower than IRL or NASCAR.
Yazdi, N., Knox, Ted, Plaga, John, Zhang, Y., Hower, R.
Grand Prize Winner, "Create the Future" 2007 Design ContestTBMG-27314/1/2008
Winner of $20,000
Noise-Canceling Helmet Audio SystemTBMG-19125/1/2007
A prototype helmet audio system has been developed to improve voice communication for the wearer in a noisy environment. The system was originally intended to be used in a space suit, wherein noise generated by airflow of the spacesuit life-support system can make it difficult for remote listeners to understand the astronaut’s speech and can interfere with the astronaut’s attempt to issue vocal commands to a voice-controlled robot. The system could be adapted to terrestrial use in helmets of protective suits that are typically worn in noisy settings: examples include biohazard, fire, rescue, and diving suits.
Mobile Collection and Automated Interpretation of EEG DataTBMG-13493/1/2007
A system that would comprise mobile and stationary electronic hardware and software subsystems has been proposed for collection and automated interpretation of electroencephalo- graphic (EEG) data from subjects in everyday activities in a variety of environments. By enabling collection of EEG data from mobile subjects engaged in ordinary activities (in contradistinction to collection from immobilized subjects in clinical settings), the system would expand the range of options and capabilities for performing diagnoses.
AFRL Teams With Indy Racing League® for Neck ProtectionTBMG-46504/1/2006
The bulletlike, open-wheel Indy racing cars hurtle around oval tracks at breakneck velocities, often approaching speeds of 220 mph or higher. While a crash at this speed is a violent, sometimes tragic event, it is nonetheless a key data source for AFRL researchers seeking ways to create a safer environment for Air Force (AF) fighter pilots during emergency ejection.
Using PXI-Based Arbitrary Waveform Generators for Non-Standard Raster/Stroke (Vector) VideoTBMG-6505/1/2003
A number of display systems primarily used in specialized areas such as aviation, space (NASA), and military/defense employ non-standard video signal technologies such as raster/stroke analog video. Displays in cockpits of planes, pilot helmets, and ground vehicle systems, for example, employ some of these non-standard video techniques. Testing these displays requires multiple specialized video signal generators and pattern generators.
Helmet Protection: Why Not More?2002-01-335212/2/2002
Every day, people of good intention sell Americans safety helmets tested to antiquated performance standards that have failed to take advantage of test methodology and scientific advances available for the past decade. It's important to understand how and why helmet protection has failed to be “all it can be.” Let this analysis serve as a lesson to those responsible for the creation of safety standards and the design and sale of helmets. This paper is written to motivate, not criticize. Virtually every helmet sold in this country, whether it is a bicycle helmet, a football helmet or a motorcycle helmet, is designed to meet a test standard established by either a government agency or a private industry-based organization. These standards have all been derived from very primitive biomechanical work and allegorical information dating back to the 1950s and 1960s. From Darrel Stingly to Dale Earnhardt, countless injuries and death may be a by-product of myopic standardization. Let's see why.
Coben, Larry E.
Lightweight Foam Pads for HelmetsTBMG-725211/1/2002
Special foam pads have been developed for use in helmets. The foams in these pads have been formulated to obtain a combination of light weight, resistance to oxidation, flame retardance, superior shock-absorbing properties, and physical comfort during long use. In the original application, the pads are intended especially for use in supporting the heads of reclining astronauts during launch, providing a slight upward tilt so that the astronauts can see critical panels, switches, and checklists more easily. Modified versions of the pads and foams may be useful on Earth in helmets for motorcyclists, athletes, and others.
Improved Dynamic Holographic Optical-Interconnection SystemTBMG-295442/1/2001
An improved visual display system for a helmet produces two- and three-dimensional images by use of the limited domain of spatial light modulation (SLM) values. One especially notable improvement incorporated into the design of this system is a simplification in the design of dynamic holographic optical element (HOE) switches. This system can be expected to afford immediate and calculable benefits to the United States space program; similar benefits for the military and private industry are also anticipated.
Improved Suit for Protection During Abrasive BlastingTBMG-299965/1/1999
An improved suit to be worn by a worker during abrasive blasting has been developed. Denoted an environmentally controlled abrasive-blasting suit (ECAB), it provides comprehensive protection that, heretofore, has been afforded by a set of special under- and over-garments (including a helmet) and a respirator. These garments and the respirator must be donned in a time-consuming "suit-up" procedure before abrasive blasting. After blasting, the worker must not only doff the garments and respirator but must also shower and the garments must be laundered before they are used again. In contrast, donning the ECAB takes less "suit-up" time, there in no need to wear special undergarments inside the ECAB, there is no need for a respirator, it is not necessary to shower after doffing the ECAB, and the suit does not require laundering prior to reuse.
Polyurethane, Foam-In-Place, Rigid Closed Cell, For HelmetlinersAMS3574 (Current)3/1/1995
AMS CE Elastomers Committee
Polyurethane, Foam-In-Place, Rigid Closed Cell, for Helmet LinersAMS3574A (Historical)7/1/1985
This specification has been "CANCELLED" by the Aerospace Materials Division, SAE, as of March 1995. By this action, subject specification number and title will be deleted from the active specification index of Aerospace Material Specifications.
AMS CE Elastomers Committee
Fabrication Of Form-Fit Polyurethane Foam Helmet LinersARP1877 (Current)7/1/1985
This specification describes the materials, equipment, and procedures used in fabricating foam-in-place flight helmet liners.
AMS P Polymeric Materials Committee
Status Report of the Netherlands - 19858560071/1/1985
Dutch policy and activities regarding safety of road vehicles are reviewed. Research by private institution has increased and international requirements are being prepared. Fatalities and injuries have decreased. Safety areas under consideration include car construction for pedestrian safety and safer vehicles for the handicapped. Seat belt use, helmets and safety seats for children are being explored.
Hoekstra, Pieter W.
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