Atlas Brace Testing Atlas Brace Testing

TESTING (HOW)

Lab Testing

For performing repeatable validation tests

Real World Data

To determine broad statistical outcomes

Real World Results

Where every possible variable is accounted for

Atlas Brace real world testing results

Critical neck injuries

Lower result is better

Atlas Brace real world testing results

Non-critical neck injuries

Lower result is better

Atlas Brace real world testing results

Collarbone fractures

Lower result is better

The results from over 10 years, and 9400+ detailed injury reports are overwhelmingly in favour of neck braces - lending credibility to the lab testing results published by neck brace manufacturers

Lab Testing

Atlas uses a 3rd party lab in California - keeping us removed from the process. The lab designs & performs the various test scenarios, then provides us with the raw, unbiased data and findings

The goal of lab testing is to work within specific parameters for high accuracy & repeatability. In the case of neck braces, the lab measures force reduction in various brace vs no brace scenarios

Average force reduction with and without an Atlas Brace™ are shown below*
Lower results are better

Atlas Brace Lab testing - Hyperextension Results

Hyperextension

Head backwards/up

Atlas Brace Lab testing - Compression Results

Axial Load

Compression, top of the head

Atlas Brace Lab testing - Hyperflexion Results

Hyperflexion

Head forwards/down

Our goal is to lower the peak forces enough to get below the threshold of severe injury

Our flexion and extension testing also includes compressive forces - Performing tests this way mimics typical real life crash scenarios to provide accurate and meaningful data

While it may not be directly comparable to other brands data, we believe this more stringent approach is the correct method to validate the effectiveness of neck braces

Test equipment

The best equipment available helps produce the most applicable results

MATD Neck

The Motorcycle Anthropometric Test Device (MATD) neck was specifically developed (and certified) to be more realistic for motorcycle crash data acquisition than a standard car crash type neck

We use one of ~15 that exist in the world

Atlas Brace Testing - MATD neck for Hybrid III dummy
Atlas Brace Lab testing dummy

Test Rig

The Dummy is made up of an instrumented upper torso surrogate fitted with a Hybrid III head-form and MATD neck

The rig "flys" in a superman position into a 30° or 90° surface - The closest replica of common over-the-bars type crashes onto flat ground or an incline surface

Starting height (and therefore speed) can be manipulated to simulate low or high G-force scenarios. Orientation of the dummy can also be controlled (face up, face down, etc)

Simulating real world scenarios helps prepare for real world scenarios

The Head

Testing has also shown force reduction to the head is possible in certain scenarios - as evident from the helmet damage shown here**

Identical tests were performed with and without a brace using two identical brand new helmets

Left - Fractured shell (no brace)
Right - Scuffed paint (with Atlas Brace™)

Atlas Brace Testing Reduced forces to the head

Key Takeaways

Positive Lab Results

Neck braces reduce forces in the lab - Multiple manufacturers have shown this

Positive Real World Results

Real world accident reporting is overwhelmingly in favour of neck braces

Zero Negative Data

20 years and counting - no negative test results or real world statistics have ever been shown

The probability of injury is never zero
Crashing cannot be eliminated, the only way to reduce injury is to wear the best safety equipment

Have a question? Contact us >

*Our testing is performed different than other manufacturers, results may not be directly comparable

**Neck braces are not designed or intended to reduce head injuries. Concussions and other serious head injuries do not require crashing, compressive forces, or involvement of the neck brace to occur.

Disclaimer: Atlas products cannot protect the user from all foreseeable, or unforeseeable impacts. By using this product the user accepts the risks involved with extreme sports, and understands that no safety equipment device can guarantee that any injury will be prevented. Motor sports, racing, and extreme sports can be dangerous. Participation in these activities can result in severe brain, head, neck, spine, and other bodily injuries which may result in paralysis or death. Perform these activities with caution and always wear the appropriate safety equipment. The Atlas Brace™ cannot protect against all potential impacts and/or injuries. Although the Atlas Brace™ is designed to help reduce the risk and/or severity of Cervical spine injuries, there is no guarantee that injury will be prevented by the use of this, or any other safety equipment - Use at your own risk.

Design (Why)

Discover why we do what we do

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Testing (How)

In the lab, and real world

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Myths (Busted)

True or false?

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