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Heat loss variations of full-face motorcycle helmets
1Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Testing and Research, Laboratory for Physiology and Protection, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, CH-9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland.
Applied Ergonomics
|May 3, 2008
Summary
Motorcycle helmet heat loss varies significantly, with vent opening impacting thermal comfort. Helmet design features crucial for managing heat transfer were identified.
Area of Science:
- Engineering
- Thermal Science
- Human Factors
Background:
- Motorcycle helmets are essential safety gear, but thermal comfort is a significant concern for riders.
- Understanding heat loss from helmets is crucial for improving rider comfort and potentially reducing heat stress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify heat loss from 27 full-face motorcycle helmets using a thermal manikin.
- To investigate the impact of vent configuration on helmet heat loss.
- To identify helmet construction features influencing thermal performance.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a thermal manikin headform, electrically heated and placed in a wind tunnel.
- Conducted tests under controlled environmental conditions (22°C, 50% RH, ~50 km/h wind speed).
- Measured heat loss with all helmet vents open and closed in random order across three sessions.
Main Results:
- Significant variations in heat loss were observed across helmets, ranging from 0-4 W (scalp) and 8-18 W (face).
- Opening all vents increased heat loss by over 1 W for several helmets in both scalp and face sections.
- Identified key helmet construction features affecting heat transfer.
Conclusions:
- Helmet design and vent status critically influence heat loss, impacting rider thermal comfort.
- The measured heat transfer levels approach thresholds for human thermal sensitivity.
- Findings provide valuable data for designing more thermally comfortable motorcycle helmets.
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