HILDA Helmet Shell

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The use of carbon-fibre in structures such as racing car bodies was well known and this led to a collaborative programme between the Company and Mclaren. This clamshell helmet shell was produced under a programme called Helmet Integrated Light Development (HILDA) to evaluate the suitability of the carbon-fibre material and the clamshell design was chosen to see if it would give a design that would fit to the head better with less movement. A clamshell design might also negate the need for a separate NBC Hood if it can be sealed around the pilot’s head. Carbon-fibre as a helmet material is well established but the clamshell concept has not been pursued however.