Repeatability and Reproducibility of a Standard Test Method for Measuring Head-Supported Mass Properties
Abstract
U.S. military Service Members are provided protective head gear for use in training and operational environments. This headgear is typically in the form of a helmet, at a minimum consisting of a rigid outer shell and an individual fitting and retention system. Many different helmet configurations are used by the U.S. Soldier, depending on their Military Occupational Series, the anticipated threat, and the operational environment. The helmet shell also provides an ideal mounting surface for ancillary equipment or advanced tactical systems such as night vision systems, weapon targeting displays, and other visual augmentation systems. As technology advances, the use of helmet mounted devices (HMDs) have become increasingly common to enhance capabilities. The cumulative effect of adding components to the helmet is increased mass and a change in weight distribution of the total head-borne system (HBS) being supported by the wearers neck. These HBSs have the potential to increase the risk of cervical spine injury and to decrease wearer performance through accelerated fatigue rates. During development of military helmets and HMDs, materiel developers need a valid and repeatable test methodology for measuring their mass properties. DEVCOM SC and USAARL reviewed existing mass properties measurement procedures and identified critical items to incorporate into a unified Army methodology. A gage R and R study was performed on this Army method to assess the validity of the system and procedures. This report outlines the joint Army effort undertaken by DEVCOM SC and USAARL to define and validate a method for measuring mass properties of helmets and HMDs.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1198958
Entities
People
- B. J. Mcentire
- Marina Carboni
- Nathan Flath