RESEARCH ON THE IMPACT OF HEAD-LINER GAP SIZE ON BLAST WAVE PROTECTION EFFECTIVENESS

This study investigates the impact of the head-liner gap size on blast wave protection effectiveness based on a ring-shaped liner. A finite element model of the head with a typical cranial structure was established and subjected to blast wave loading. The head model was equipped with a protective helmet, and a sealing liner was designed inside the helmet. This liner circumferentially surrounds the head, effectively preventing the blast wave from entering the head-helmet gap and providing protection to the head. By varying the dimensions of the ring-shaped liner, different head-liner gap sizes were achieved, and the impact of the gap on the helmet's protective capability was studied. The results show that the attenuation of the blast wave peak overpressure by the helmet is approximately linearly related to the head-liner gap size. The larger the gap size, the lower the attenuation of the blast wave overpressure by the helmet, and the worse the helmet's blast wave protection capability. Therefore, while ensuring the comfort and breathability of the helmet, the headliner gap size should be minimized to enhance the helmet's blast wave protection capability.