Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 7, 2026

A Test Bed to Examine Helmet Fit and Retention and Biomechanical Measures of Head and Neck Injury in Simulated Impact
Published on: September 21, 2017
Thermal perception of ventilation changes in full-face motorcycle helmets: subject and manikin study
Cornelis P Bogerd1, René M Rossi, Paul A Brühwiler
1Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Laboratory for Protection and Physiology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, CH-9011 St Gallen, Switzerland.
Abstract:
We report the effects of full-face motorcycle helmet ventilation systems on heat, airflow, noise, and comfort perception for ventilation changes on the scalp. Eight subjects (aged 28.0 ± 5.4 years) underwent two experimental trials at ambient temperatures of 23.7 ± 0.4 °C or 27.5 ± 0.3 °C. In each trial, the thermally equilibrated subjects underwent two examination phases, during which four different helmets were assessed at wind speeds of 39.2 ± 1.9 km h(-1) and 59.3 ± 1.4 km h(-1). Vent-induced heat loss in the scalp ranged from -6.1 to 6.1 W, corresponding to vents being closed or opened, respectively. Perception of vent-induced changes was assessed immediately after the change. We find that the vent-induced heat loss, the subject, and the helmet are the most important response factors. In addition, comparison of two helmets with similar vent-induced heat loss suggests that internal airflow patterns may be important in explaining the observed perception differences.
Related Concept Videos
Assessment of Ventilation I: Respiratory Rate
A Ventilation assessment is critical for monitoring a patient's health status. Respiration, one of the most accessible vital signs, provides insights into the function of numerous body systems and can indicate serious health issues, such as brainstem injuries from head trauma.
Critical Guidelines for Assessing Ventilation:
Assessing Body Temperature - Tympanic membrane
Step 1: Begin by practicing good hand hygiene to prevent the transmission of microorganisms.
Step 2: Turn on the thermometer and wait until the ready sign appears on the screen to ensure accurate measurement.
Step 3: Slide the probe cover in place to prevent cross-contamination.
Step 4: Instruct the patient to tilt their head to the side for comfort and check for cerumen...
Assessment of Ventilation II: Respiratory Depth and Rhythm
Respiratory depth measures the volume of air inhaled or exhaled during a breath. It can vary from shallow to deep and typically remains consistent when a person is at rest or asleep. Occasionally, individuals will automatically inhale deeply, known as sighing, which inflates the lungs with more air than normal breathing.
To assess respiratory depth, observe the degree of chest excursion or movement:
Thermosensation
Mechanical Ventilation I: Indication and Settings
Mechanical Ventilation II: Invasive Ventilation
Negative-Pressure Ventilators
Negative-pressure ventilators create a vacuum around the chest or body to draw air into the lungs, simulating breathing. This method does not require an...

