The head protection \u2018halo\u2019 system mandated in Formula One racing may affect the drivers\u2019 head position and motion, potentially compromising steering accuracy, a new simulation test led by Curtin University suggests.<\/p>\n
The case study, published in the journal BMJ Case Reports<\/em> today, examined the use of the halo frontal cockpit protection system \u2013 a titanium arc fitted to the open cockpit of a racing car \u2013 in a 70-year-old amateur racing driver with more than 10 years\u2019 driving experience at the national level.<\/p>\n The halo system was mandated by the motor sports\u2019 governing body, the F\u00e9d\u00e9ration Internationale de l\u2019Automobile (FIA) for the 2018 Formula One season, following the death of French Formula One driver Jules Bianchi after a crash at the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix.<\/p>\n Lead author Dr Simon Rosalie, from the School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science at Curtin University, said the case study indicated the halo changed the driver\u2019s head movements.<\/p>\n \u201cThe use of the halo head protection system to mitigate the risk of head injury for Formula One drivers has divided the industry, with some drivers resisting the move,\u201d Dr Rosalie said.<\/p>\n \u201cThis case study suggests the halo system affects the head position and movement for drivers, which may impact their navigation and the accuracy of steering.\u201d<\/p>\n Dr Rosalie said the research indicated there may be a need for training and ergonomic adjustment to compensate for the impact on head position and movement.<\/p>\n \u201cThis study indicates the need for the effect of the halo on the muscle activity in the neck to be measured to ensure any negative impacts of the new head protection system are addressed,\u201d Dr Rosalie said.<\/p>\n \u201cIt also suggests there may be a need for training, particularly among less skilled and experienced drivers, to reduce the impact of the change in head position caused by the halo system.\u201d<\/p>\n