Design and modeling motorcycle helmets using numerical simulation

Wearing helmets while riding motorcycles is compulsory in Vietnam since 2007. The goal of this study is to build finite element models of two of the most common type of helmet to be worn by Vietnamese. Based-on observation, half helmet makes up the majority followed by open face helmet. The viability of the two helmet is studied using finite element method. The open face helmet and the half helmet was designed by the Solidwork CAD tool and modeled by LSPrepost with different thickness of the impact absorbing liner. Among with the modified V-dummy, these helmets have been conducted drop test following the European helmet standard ECE R22.05 at four impact position. The result has pointed out that the helmet models created a significant decrease of multiple injury index comparing with non-helmet model. Nevertheless, even with a thicker liner, the half helmet failed more tests than the open face helmet due to ECE 2205. Moreover, the study also points out that traditional helmets have limited effect on rotational-based brain injury.