NFL Releases Finite Element Helmet Models
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NFL Releases Finite Element Helmet Models
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Re: NFL Releases Finite Element Helmet Models
#2For those wondering what a finite element model is:
> FE models are computational tools developed by breaking an object down into simpler parts (finite elements) and assembling them into a larger system of equations to model an entire structure—this facilitates the efficient analysis of design changes to that structure. FE models have been used to improve designs in many engineered products, including those in the aeronautics and automotive industries.
Re: NFL Releases Finite Element Helmet Models
#3You really need accurate material models for this to be any use. Without being able to validate the baseline condition using the same non-linear, anisotropic, material behaviour profiles, there's no way to develop new geometry and/or use novel materials, and actually prove it's better than before.
They would ideally release their own, repeatable analysis files of their own benchmark condition.
I suspect the best helmet for blunt impacts is probably a one/few-time use deal with crumple zones to absorb the energy of the impact and increase the time of the impact. After it's crumpled you would have to swap it out for a new helmet.
Curious why they wouldn't just drop their funding on a grant for research in any top10 mechanical engineering department - the knowledge to develop this is readily available and the problem space is a fairly solved one. That being said Tesla has improved crash safety over what decades of safety engineers could do so maybe there is always space for improvement.
Re: NFL Releases Finite Element Helmet Models
#4The $60million dollar in funding shows the NFL is taking the issue more seriously than it ever has. I suspect there are individuals in the NFL organization that care about the health of their players, but most individuals see this as good PR and risk mitigation. If the NFL does nothing to address it's safety profile they are vulnerable to external regulations.
I'm unsure if this sport can be played safely with any equipment, and playsmartplaysafe.com does little to assure me new changes to helmets are coming to sharply reduce concussions. It does show me that the NFL is open to changes in their helmet design. I'd be interesting in listening to people active in the helmet industry, physicists and doctors about this new platform.
Re: NFL Releases Finite Element Helmet Models
#5Summarizing: "Because this activity is so dangerous, and results in many head injuries, we've spent $60 million developing a framework for manufacturers to make helmets that will mitigate the injuries from the this entirely voluntary activity."
Umm, has anyone considered just not doing this activity? I don't mean to be trite, but that's what it looks like from the perspective of one who has little interest in football. If so much protection is required to not turn participants into literal mental cases, the logical next step would be...
Sure, the same could be said about, say, motorcycling. But at least my motorcycle takes me places. OTOH, no one is paying millions in broadcast rights so that people can watch me ride a motorcycle on TV.
Re: NFL Releases Finite Element Helmet Models
#6Summarizing: "Because this activity is so dangerous, and results in many head injuries, we've spent $60 million developing a framework for manufacturers to make helmets that will mitigate the injuries from the this entirely voluntary activity." Umm, has anyone considered just not doing this activity? I don't mean to be trite, but that's what it looks like from the perspective of one who has little interest in footbal…
It seems you've answered your own question?
Re: NFL Releases Finite Element Helmet Models
#7Its great that the NFL is supporting biomechanics research (and will hopefully help the sport as well).
However, while the models are open source they seem to be created for LS-DYNA, which is a fairly expensive program. I'm not aware of any good open source finite element packages, but I bet this will limit uptake of their models.
Re: NFL Releases Finite Element Helmet Models
#8You really need accurate material models for this to be any use. Without being able to validate the baseline condition using the same non-linear, anisotropic, material behaviour profiles, there's no way to develop new geometry and/or use novel materials, and actually prove it's better than before. They would ideally release their own, repeatable analysis files of their own benchmark condition. I suspect the best helm…
Yes that is definitely better. With better materials engineering one could imagine an "active" material that crumpled and then "uncrumpled" itself. Perhaps the uncrumpling would require electric power?
Re: NFL Releases Finite Element Helmet Models
#9Summarizing: "Because this activity is so dangerous, and results in many head injuries, we've spent $60 million developing a framework for manufacturers to make helmets that will mitigate the injuries from the this entirely voluntary activity." Umm, has anyone considered just not doing this activity? I don't mean to be trite, but that's what it looks like from the perspective of one who has little interest in footbal…
It seems you've answered your own question?
It was a bit of a rhetorical exercise, yes.
Re: NFL Releases Finite Element Helmet Models
#10Only thing safer helmets will do is encourage players to hit harder and harder, until someone really gets killed.
I hope one day I will get to see the end of football. Why would any parent enroll their child in this sport?