Year
2026
Season
Spring
Paper Type
Master's Thesis
College
College of Computing, Engineering & Construction
Degree Name
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME)
Department
Engineering
NACO controlled Corporate Body
University of North Florida. School of Engineering
Committee Chairperson
Dr. Alexandra Schonning
Second Advisor
Dr. Grant Bevill
Rights Statement
http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/
Third Advisor
Dr. Jutima Simsiriwong
Department Chair
Dr. Alan Harris
College Dean
Dr. William Klostermeyer
Abstract
Construction helmets commonly known as “hard hats” are designed to protect their users from falling objects and other impact hazards. Their primary function is to reduce the likelihood and severity of head injury. This study investigates whether incorporating deformation zones into the helmet shell can improve the shell’s ability to absorb and dissipate impact energy when compared with a conventional helmet shell design. Deformation zones are commonly used as a mechanism to mitigate impact energy through the use of engineered failure. A total of three helmet shell configurations were analyzed in this research. Model A is a scanned construction helmet shell without a deformation zone. Model B is a construction helmet shell with large hexagonal cutouts for the deformation zone. Model C is a construction helmet shell with large triangular cutouts for the deformation zone. This research comparatively analyzes these models under both static and dynamic loading conditions. This research concludes that deformation zones should be considered in future construction helmet shell designs
Suggested Citation
Hand, Bryson B., "Comparative analysis of a common construction helmet shell with and without a deformation zone using Finite Element Analysis" (2026). UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 1404.
https://digitalcommons.unf.edu/etd/1404
Included in
Applied Mechanics Commons, Other Engineering Commons, Other Mechanical Engineering Commons
Accessibility Statement
This item was created or digitized before April 24, 2027, or is a reproduction of legacy material created before that date. It is preserved in its original, unmodified state specifically for research, reference, or historical recordkeeping. In accordance with the ADA Title II Final Rule, the Library provides accessible versions of archival materials by request. If you are experiencing difficulty accessing the information on the site due to a disability, please submit a request through the following form for assistance.