Advances in head protection technologies: validation of an instrumented biofidelic human head replica and investigation over the effect of anti-rotational helmet technologies

The present thesis focuses on the validation of a sensorized biofidelic human head replica designed to explore the impacts of anti-rotational devices for helmets. Equipped with inertial sensors to detect kinematic data of the skull and brain, in addition to the capability to monitor local stresses in the brain and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressures, this replica provides a comprehensive view of internal phenomena within the head following impacts. The validation of the instrumented head is initially addressed, followed by its application in various targeted tests to assess the effectiveness of anti-rotational helmet devices. Initially, classic Brain Injury Criteria are adopted, followed by the introduction of new criteria based on data from sensors embedded in the brain. This approach provides a detailed overview of the impact of anti-rotational devices, opening new perspectives in the design and evaluation of advanced technologies for cranial protection. Furthermore, this thesis aims to extend the validation of the head replica by incorporating advanced research on biofidelity, with a particular focus on testing new materials and target biological samples. This effort aims to improve result accuracy, making the sensorized head a more representative platform for impact studies. In the subsequent phase, attention shifts to the acquisition of full-scale data from crash tests. A sensorized Hybrid III dummy is launched with a motorcycle using a catapult system, allowing for detailed recording of impacts and analysis of system responses. This approach provides an in-depth understanding of realistic impact dynamics. In conclusion, this research integrates the validation of the instrumented head with biofidelity research, including a specific phase of data acquisition to verify the effectiveness of anti-rotational technologies, combined with a full-scale data collection phase, contributing to the ongoing advancement of head safety strategies.