Analysis and reconstruction of head kinematics during accidents in fast alpine skiing disciplines : Experimental research about the accuracy and drawbacks associated with a video analysis tool
Abstract: Head injuries caused by impacts are among the most critical and dangerous types of accidents that can occur while practising sports. Alpine skiing is one of the activities with the highest incidence of head injuries. Over the years, specific regulations have been introduced to protect athletes where possible, but the perception is that the level of protection needed to manage the forces to which they are exposed has yet to be achieved. This thesis project aims to examine video sequences of accidents in alpine ski competitions (Giant Slalom, Super-G, Downhill, Ski Cross) to better understand the translational violence exerted on the head during impacts. After an in-depth analysis, it was shown that, in at least 41% of the videos investigated, the translational impact speeds exceeded the standards adopted in helmet certifications by 44.3% and 52.2%, respectively. Besides, in 60% of these accidents, the blow was located on the upper semicircle of the helmet, which is believed to be due to the ever-increasing use of airbags for the torso.
AT THIS PAGE YOU CAN DOWNLOAD THE WHOLE ESSAY. (follow the link to the next page)