Design and Evaluation of Helmet Systems Using 3D Data

Abstract

The new anthropometric design technologies utilize advanced surface scanning and software analysis capabilities which allow for high resolution surface data of individuals and their protective equipment. Anatomical landmarks are identified in every head scan and include coordinates of locations such as pupils, tragions (ears), and other relevant features. The subjects are then scanned with their protective equipment donned and common surface areas found in the two scans, usually on the front of the face, are used to register the two surface scans. For development of helmet mounted systems technology using existing helmet shells as platforms, a population of representative personnel can be scanned with and without the helmet to establish a database. This database, then, is used to derive feature envelopes such as ear locations or pupil ranges with respect to a helmet-based coordinate system. This coordinate system, and the subsequent features envelopes, can be duplicated by designers and used as a basis for building viewing devices or acoustic equipment.