Concussion protection rating system for whitewater helmets
This technology is a standardized testing method for whitewater helmets that measures how well they protect against concussions. It works by striking two helmets of the same model at specific speeds and locations — front, side, and rear — then recording both linear and rotational acceleration from each impact. Those measurements feed into a formula that calculates a single 'injury risk metric' for the helmet model, accounting for how often each type of impact actually occurs in real whitewater sports. The result is a comparable, reproducible score that lets manufacturers, regulators, and consumers judge one helmet's concussion protection against another's.
What you could build
A helmet certification and ratings service — similar to Virginia Tech's STAR rating system for football helmets — that scores whitewater helmets on concussion protection; primary buyers would be helmet manufacturers seeking certification and outdoor sports retailers or governing bodies requiring it.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia Tech has an established helmet-rating program; Virginia-based outdoor recreation brands, safety testing labs, or sporting goods retailers could be natural partners or licensees.
Readiness: Prototype likely
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Brock Duma, Stefan Duma, Mark Begonia, Steve Rowson
- Granted
- July 2, 2024
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 12025538
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.