Rotational acceleration measurements--evaluating helmet protection.

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