Rotational-impact helmet testing protocol for concussion risk
This technology is a standardized testing method for helmets—primarily sports helmets—that evaluates how well a helmet protects against concussions. It does this by combining two types of head movement during an impact (linear acceleration, which is straight-line force, and rotational acceleration, which is a twisting force) into a single risk score. The test runs 12 specific impact scenarios, varying both where the helmet is hit and how hard, then weights each scenario by how often that type of hit actually occurs in a real game season. The result is a single, exposure-weighted concussion risk number that allows helmets to be compared on a scientifically grounded, apples-to-apples basis.
What you could build
A certified helmet testing service or licensed testing protocol sold to helmet manufacturers (football, hockey, cycling) and sports governing bodies that need scientifically credible concussion-risk ratings—similar in model to how IIHS ratings work for car safety.
Who in Virginia should care
Defense contractors and military PPE suppliers near Northern Virginia and Quantico, as well as sports equipment manufacturers with East Coast operations, would have immediate interest in a validated helmet rating protocol.
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
- Stefan M. Duma, Steven Rowson, Craig McNally
- Granted
- October 24, 2017
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 9797821
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.