Ground Troop Helmet Electronic Cable Safety Design Issues
Abstract
Several development efforts are ongoing to integrate electronic devices onto ground soldier helmets which improve tactical advantages over adversarial forces. These devices often receive electrical signals and power from remote components located on the soldier. While technology is progressing to develop wireless systems to transfer these signals, basic wire technology appears to be the most secure and reliable at this time. These interface cables are tethered between the helmet and torso. These tethered cables introduce new injury risks to combat soldiers which must be addressed during system design. The injury risk is derived from the possibility of catching or snagging the interface cable. Both cable ends are secured, one to the electronic device mounted on the wearer 5 head or helmet, and the other to some location on the soldier's torso. A snag of the interface cable would introduce loads to the wearer's head and torso which could be transferred to the neck structure. Even with a breakaway connector, it is possible for the connector body to be caught and apply injury producing loads to the wearer. The likely injury loads are those applied to the head and neck structure. Human head and neck tolerance to external loadings are reviewed to establish guidelines for improved safety design. Consideration is given to the various loading conditions and injury mechanisms.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA342918
Entities
People
- B. Joseph McEntire
Organizations
- United States Army Aeromedical Research Lab