For this project, my group's task was to research as much as we could about the physics and functionalities of a helmet, and then work toward a final 3D design of our own type of helmet. We learned how to use Fusion 360 to create our design, and applied our previous knowledge of orthographic drawings to plan out the design. We decided to create an aerodynamic helmet, meaning that it helps the rider go faster when biking as it decreases airflow within the helmet and gives a streamline effect.
Orthographic Drawing
Our Research
Our 3D Design
Concepts
Acceleration: Acceleration is a measurement of velocity over time. Abrupt changes in velocity can be very dangerous to humans, as they impart a lot of force.
Coefficient Of Friction: The coefficient of friction of a material is the measurement of the level of friction it has. The formula is μ = f/N, where μ is the coefficient of friction, f, is the amount of force that resists motion, and N is the normal force. Normal force is the forces involved with the collision between the objects that is causing the friction.
Crumple Zones: The areas of a device designed to absorb an impact by deforming are crumple zones. In our helmet the crumple zone is the inner lining, though the outer lining will also crumple under enough force.
Drag: Also known as air resistance, drag is the amount an object will slow down when it moves through the atmosphere due to air displacement. A good helmet has little drag; a good parachute has lots of drag.
Inertia: Inertia is a object's tendency to resist change. If an object is motionless, it can be hard to get it to start moving, and once it starts moving, it will resist attempts to slow it down, or alter its direction.
G Force: The force acting on the body due to acceleration, measured in units of earth gravity. Unless you are moving very fast right now, you are likely experiencing 1 G. The body can't take too many Gs, so it is important to try and negate as much acceleration as possible during a crash.
Friction: Friction is the force that resists the motion of 2 objects against one another. It prevents everything from being slippery all the time.
Force: A force is any influence that causes a change in movement, direction, or shape. Typing exerts force on the keyboard; a motorcyclist exerts force on the ground to move. There is a force behind any movement. You can calculate force using the equation F=MA.
Kinetic Friction: A force that acts on moving objects that touch each other. Each object will experience a force in the opposite direction to that which they are moving. The strength of the force is decided by the coefficient of friction.
Reflection
Overall, this project was successful for my group. We improved on our dividing tasks abilities, so every member had a particular job that fit their skills best so we could work together to create as successful of a finished product as possible. I personally worked the most on the research aspect of the project, and was proud of my work and thorough understanding of aerodynamics and the way a helmet functions. It wasn't all smooth sailing though, as their was some confusion regarding who was working on what part. I was absent quite a bit during the main work week, so I did most of my research from home which made it hard to communicate and know how far along my group was. Other than that, I am very happy with the way our 3D helmet design turned out, and am glad my group worked well together yet again.