Human Head and Helmet Interface Friction Coefficients with Biological Sex and Hair Property Comparisons

• DOI: 10.1007/s10439-023-03332-9
• Publication Date: 2023-08-04T14:02:15Z
• Authors: Nicole E.-P. Stark; Charlotte Clark; Steve Rowson
• Keywords: Coefficient of friction; Human head

Dummy headforms used for impact testing have changed little over the years, and frictional characteristics are thought not to represent human head accurately. The interface between helmet is an essential factor affecting response. However, few studies evaluated coefficient of friction (COF) surface. This study's objectives were quantify head's static dynamic COF evaluate effect biological sex hair properties. Seventy-four participants slid their heads along a piece foam backed by fixed load cell at varying normal force levels. As increased, decreased following power-law curves. At 80 N, 0.32 (95% CI 0.30-0.34), 0.27 0.26-0.28). Biological properties determined affect COF. COFs surface should be develop more biofidelic methods, define boundary conditions computer simulations, aid decision-making designs.