Modelling and validation of motorcyclist helmet with composite shell

The aim of this paper is to propose a new helmet finite element model of a commercial helmet with a composite outer shell and to validate it under normative conditions against experimental tests. After a meshing of the helmet based on the computer-aided design (CAD) provided by the manufacturer, the mechanical properties of each component of the helmet (the outer shell and the foam) have been implemented under LS-DYNA FE code. The composite outer shell has been modelled with a non-homogeneous law by taking into account characteristics of each ply composing the laminate in terms of elastic behaviour as well as rupture behaviour. The foam characteristics are based on literature data. After coupling of the helmet model with the headform model, the novel helmet model has then been validated against experimental data under normative conditions as prescribed by standard ECE 22.05.