Transition of deformation modes from bending to auxetic compression in origami-based metamaterials for head protection from impact

For the protection of the human head by energy absorption structures, a soft mechanical response upon contact with the head is required to mitigate the effect of impact, while a hard mechanical response for highly efficient energy absorption is required to stop the movement of the head. This study realized the opposite mechanical properties during head protection by transitioning the deformation mode from bending to auxetic compression. First, non-linear finite element (FE) models were constructed to numerically reproduce the bending behavior. The calculated force responses agreed well with forces in bending tests. Using the FE models, the EA structures with proper transition of deformation modes were designed and installed in the seat headrests of real vehicles. Head protection was evaluated by dynamic loading in sled testing, in which the force on the head of the crash test dummy was measured. The head injury criterion improved from 274 to 155, indicating the superior performance of the tested structures compared to that achieved by energy absorption structures based on steel plates. Moreover, the deformation of auxetic structures prevented neck bending by holding the head. These findings present new possibilities for effectively protecting the human body by mitigating impact, facilitating energy absorption, and ensuring head stability.