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Rotational Acceleration Measurements - Evaluating Helmet Protection

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 December 2014

M. Kis ,
F. Saunders ,
M.W. ten Hove  and
J.R. Leslie
M. Kis
Affiliation:
Department of Neurosurgery, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS
F. Saunders
Affiliation:
Department of Neurosurgery, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario Canada
M.W. ten Hove
Affiliation:
Department of Neuro-Ophthalmology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario Canada
J.R. Leslie
Affiliation:
Department of Physics, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario Canada
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Abstract

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Purpose:

Current helmet testing standards do not address the rotational components of an impact to the head. We describe a new testing paradigm used to measure the rotational acceleration of a headform and a protective helmet following an impact to the head in the horizontal plane. This impact simulation allows for the testing of currently available head protection devices in conditions thought to be important for the generation of cerebral concussion. The degree to which a particular helmet dampens rotational acceleration, and thus protects against concussion, can be assessed.

Methods:

Our testing device consists of a pneumatic piston that provides a measured impact to a standard headform. Four different helmets were tested using the described paradigm.

Results:

Acceleration curves for each helmet and the corresponding headform are presented.

Conclusion:

Clear differences in rotational acceleration were demonstrated. Possible avenues of further investigation are discussed.

Type
Other
Information
Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences , Volume 31 , Issue 4 , November 2004 , pp. 499 - 503
Copyright
Copyright © The Canadian Journal of Neurological 2004

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