Designing a device to reduce concussion risks for junior football players.
About
The objective of the Head Armor Pro project is to improve safety in youth football by addressing critical gaps in helmet technology. Youth football players face a high risk of concussion due to inadequate helmet protection. Current helmets focus on reducing linear forces to prevent skull fractures but fail to address rotational forces, which are the primary cause of concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Head Armor Pro fills this gap by developing an advanced helmet insert that effectively mitigates both linear and rotational forces.
The solution replaces conventional helmet foams with a specially designed impact-absorbing material. The insert features a geometrically engineered structure that enhances energy absorption, improving both linear and rotational impact protection. To provide real-time impact monitoring, embedded sensors measure acceleration and rotational velocities, allowing coaches and trainers to respond quickly to potential injuries
Mechanical testing, including various impact and compression experiments, demonstrated that our design reduces linear forces by 57% and rotational forces by 22% compared to standard helmet foams. These results highlight Head Armor Pro’s ability to significantly enhance player protection while remaining lightweight and affordable. By improving impact absorption and monitoring, this design advances youth football safety, supports injury prevention, and encourages widespread adoption through cost-effective manufacturing. Head Armor Pro sets a new benchmark in sports safety, empowering young athletes to play with greater confidence and reduced risk.Team
Mechanical Engineer
Connor Hollis is one of the Mechanical Engineers on the project who focused more on problem solving and the physical handy work needed to create the models to test the material designs. In the future, Connor is transitioning into real estate and taking over his family’s property management business.
Thank you to our Sponsors and Advisors who have supported our project.
Mechanical Engineering Academic Advisor
Biomedical Engineering Academic Advisor
Biomedical Engineering Supervisor
Impact & Performance Testing
Project Documents
Bluetooth integrated impact sensor.
Finish pendulum testing and collect data.
Sizing components and insert into the helemt.
Presentation and reports ready for design day!