Biomechanical performance of a new head and neck support

Hubbard, Robert P.; Begeman, Paul C.

Affiliations

¹Department of Biomechanics, Michigan State Univ., East Lansing, MI

²Bioengineering Center, Wayne State Univ., Detroit, MI

Abstract

The heads of auto racing drivers and military pilots are usually not supported so that neck fatigue and injury can be a serious problem. A new Head And Neck Support (HANS) is being developed to reduce head motions and neck loads.

The biomechanical performance of HANS has been evaluated by crash victim modeling with CAL 3-D and by impact sled testing a Hybrid III dummy. Modeling and testing were conducted at 30 and 35 mph BEV and with acceleration directions from the front, right front, and right lateral.

The model and test results show that head motions, neck loading, and the potential for neck injury are all significantly reduced with HANS compared to without HANS.

Links

DOI: 10.4271/902312

SAE: 902312

Cited By (2)

Year	Entry
2005	Manoogian SJ, Kennedy EA, Duma SM. An Updated Literature Review of Musculoskeletal Injuries to the Human Neck and the Effects of Head-Supported Mass Worn by Soldiers. Fort Rucker, AL: U.S. Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory; October 2005. USAARL Contract Report CR-2006-01.
1997	Winkelstein BA, Myers BS. The biomechanics of cervical spine injury and implications for injury prevention. Med Sci Sports Exer. July 1997;29(suppl 7):S246-S255.