The project is to re-engineer and design a new football helmet for younger players that will reduce the possibility of a concussion. Concussions are devastating and have long-term effects that are becoming better understood. The helmets we use today have become a weapon that can cause great damage and we hope to create a helmet that will reverse that perception. The preliminary idea for the new helmet is to have a soft layer on the outside of the helmet with the hard layer on the inside. In addition, we will have to design all the other pads and the facemask. This project will consist of materials and structures work but will also integrate understanding of design processes and manufacturing techniques.

My name is Brad Walcher and I am a junior in Course 16 (AeroAstro). I am prepared for this research project because I have done design work in internships and I have experience with helmets as a current member of the MIT Football team. I hope to learn more about materials and the types of structures that are strongest in helmets and shock-absorption.