Author(s): BOUCHEZ, M., VARANGES, V., TERRIER, A., PIOLETTI, D., Institution: ECOLE POLYTECHNIQUE FÉDÉRALE DE LAUSANNE (EPFL), Country: SWITZERLAND, Abstract-ID: 523

INTRODUCTION:
Traumatic brain injuries remain a major concern in alpine skiing, despite widespread helmet use [1]. While current helmet standards primarily address linear acceleration, oblique impacts generating rotational head kinematics are strongly associated with concussion risk [2]. Reliable evaluation of helmet performance under such loading conditions requires validated biomechanical models. This study aimed to develop and validate a high-fidelity finite element model of a ski helmet subjected to realistic frontal-oblique impacts, providing a robust computational framework for sport-related head injury assessment.
METHODS:
A detailed finite element model of a commercial ski helmet coupled with a biofidelic Hybrid III headform was developed. The model reproduced experimental frontal-oblique drop tests performed at 6 m/s onto an inclined anvil. Material models and contact conditions were defined based on experimental data. Model accuracy was evaluated by comparing simulated and experimental linear and rotational head accelerations using time histories and peak values. Model robustness was assessed through numerical convergence and sensitivity analyses.
RESULTS:
The model closely reproduced experimental impact kinematics, with peak linear and rotational accelerations predicted within 15% of experimental values. Pearson correlation coefficients exceeded 0.95 for both acceleration signals. Mesh refinement effects on peak outputs remained below 5%, and sensitivity analyses highlighted the influence of friction conditions on rotational response while preserving consistent kinematic trends.
CONCLUSION:
This validated finite element model reliably captures head kinematics during sport-relevant oblique ski helmet impacts. It provides a necessary biomechanical foundation for the evaluation and future development of advanced helmet technologies aimed at improving head injury prevention and user safety in alpine skiing.
References:
[1] Kiss-Bodolay et al., 2023 [2] Meaney et al., 2011