In-lab assessment of a ice hockey helmet-integrated sensor fusion framework for torque estimation: A proof-of-concept study

This study presents a proof-of-concept ice hockey helmet–integrated system for characterizing in-lab rotational loading, consisting of a single Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) and custom soft foam force sensors. A total of 72 controlled pendulum impacts (33 J and 79 J) were delivered to a helmeted Anthropomorphic Test Device (ATD) at side and crown locations. A custom algorithm detected impacts and estimated torque by combining IMU-derived directions with force magnitudes. Results showed successful discrimination between conditions, with crown impacts producing lower torque. Recognizing torque as a relevant metric may improve monitoring and prevention of brain injury in contact sports.