STAR concussion-rating program for equestrian helmets
This technology is a standardized testing protocol for rating how well equestrian helmets protect riders from concussions. It works by physically striking multiple helmets of the same model from different angles and at different speeds, measuring the resulting linear and rotational forces transmitted to the head. Those measurements are converted into concussion risk scores, which are then weighted by how often riders actually experience those types of impacts in the real world. The result is a single, comparable safety rating—similar to the NCAP star system for cars—that consumers and buyers can use to compare helmets.
What you could build
A licensed testing and certification rating program that helmet manufacturers pay to have their products evaluated and labeled with a consumer-facing safety score, similar to Virginia Tech's existing STAR rating systems for football and cycling helmets. Buyers would be equestrian helmet brands seeking a credible third-party safety endorsement.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia Tech already operates STAR helmet rating programs and has direct relationships with sporting goods manufacturers and safety standards bodies—this is a natural extension of that existing commercialized research infrastructure.
Readiness: Lab validated
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
- Lauren Duma, Barry Miller, Mark Begonia, Steve Rowson, Stefan Duma
- Granted
- May 19, 2026
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 12628897
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.