Numerical model of a mechanical metamaterial with adaptable stiffness

Engineering of Sport 15 - Proceedings from the 15th International Conference on the Engineering of Sport (ISEA 2024)

Ice hockey has one of the highest concussion rates in sport. A challenge in developing helmets is the range of common head impacts. Current ice hockey helmets are relatively stiff to protect during falls on the ice, as assessed in certification standards. However, more than 90% of concussions are caused by collisions between players. Consequently, liners do not compress through most of their range during impacts with more compliant bodies, increasing accelerations and injury risks. A helmet liner that can adapt its compressive properties, dependent on the nature of impact, could improve helmets during collisions whilst maintaining a high stiffness during rigid surface impacts. A previously presented rate-dependent mechanical metamaterial with adaptable buckling behaviour could achieve such a switch in stiffness. The concept must be rigorously assessed before potential application in safety equipment. Numerical analysis could support testing and development of the concept and reduce the need for more time and cost intensive methods.