The Helmet Fit Index: A Method for the Computational Analysis of Fit between Human Head Shapes and Bicycle Helmets

Thierry Perret-Ellena, Aleksandar Subic, Toh Yen Pang, Helmy Mustafa

Research output: Chapter in Book/Published conference outputConference publication

9 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

While a bicycle helmet protects the wearer’s head in the event of a crash, not every user benefits to the same extent when wearing the headgear. A proper fit with the cyclist’s head is found to be one of the most important attributes to improve protection during impact. A correct fit is defined as a small and uniform distance between the helmet liner and the wearer’s head shape, with a broad coverage of the head area. The scientific community has recognised the need for improved fitting, but in-depth methods to analyse and compare the fit performance of distinct helmets models are still absent from the literature. We present a method based on 3D anthropometry, reverse engineering techniques and computational analysis to redress this shortcoming. As a result of this study, we introduce the Helmet Fit Index (HFI) as a tool for fit analysis between a helmet model and a human head. It is envisaged that the HFI can provide detailed understanding of helmet efficiency regarding fit and shou ld be used during helmet development phases and testing.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 2nd International Congress on Sports Sciences Research and Technology Support - icSPORTS
PublisherSciTePress
Pages145-153
Number of pages9
Volume1
ISBN (Print)9789897580574
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2014

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