The Helmet Fit Index – An intelligent tool for fit assessment and design customisation. (July 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ellena, Thierry; Subic, Aleksandar; Mustafa, Helmy; Pang, Toh Yen
• Is Part Of: Applied ergonomics. Volume 55(2016:Jul.)
• Page Start: 194
• Page End: 207
• Publication Date: 2016-07
• Subjects: 3D anthropometry -- Helmet -- Fit assessment; Human engineering -- Periodicals; 620.82
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2016.02.008
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-6870

Abstract

Abstract: Helmet safety benefits are reduced if the headgear is poorly fitted on the wearer's head. At present, there are no industry standards available to assess objectively how a specific protective helmet fits a particular person. A proper fit is typically 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. This paper presents a novel method to investigate and compare fitting accuracy of helmets based on 3D anthropometry, reverse engineering techniques and computational analysis. The Helmet Fit Index (HFI) that provides a fit score on a scale from 0 (excessively poor fit) to 100 (perfect fit) was compared with subjective fit assessments of surveyed cyclists. Results in this study showed that quantitative (HFI) and qualitative (participants' feelings) data were related when comparing three commercially available bicycle helmets. Findings also demonstrated that females and Asian people have lower fit scores than males and Caucasians, respectively. The HFI could provide detailed understanding of helmet efficiency regarding fit and could be used during helmet design and development phases. Highlights: A novel method is proposed to objectively compare fitting accuracy of helmets. The Helmet Fit Index (HFI) provides a fit score on a scale from 0 to 100. The index is a suitable indicator of fit when compared to subjective assessments. Females and Asian people experienced lower fit scores than males and Caucasians. The index can be used for helmet design optimization and customisation.