Ruroc RG2
Role: Design Lead
Client: Ruroc
Completed: October 2024
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CGI by Alfie Thompson for RHEON LABS
Blending cutting-edge technology and elite level protection.
Redesigned from the ground up, Ruroc’s RG2 was developed to be lighter, more protective and more comfortable than its predecessor. Building on the success of the RHEON™ liner system in the RG1DX, RHEON LABS developed a new protection ecosystem for Ruroc, designed to protect athletes during both low and high energy impacts.
I utilising algorithmic design techniques to develop early concepts for the RG2 helmet system, exploring solutions to both fully replace and integrate with the EPS. I coordinated and carried out the impact testing of 80+ helmets across 3 test labs, optimising the design to control both linear and rotational energy on impact.
// Early Concepts
Early concepts explored structures that could replace the EPS altogether, as well as hybrid solutions designed to bring out the simultaneous benefits of EPS and RHEON™ Technology. Modular structures that could be strategically dsitributed thoughout the helmet proved the most viable for weight reduction without sacrificing performance.
// Behind the Design
Once the ‘joystick’ geometry was identified as most promising for both linear and rotational performance, the design was refined and optimised over two iterations.
Initially, 15 digital variations were developed and assessed through digital fit analysis to reduce hotspots and maximise comfort of the RG2. These 15 parametric variations included changes in height and internal geometry.
The best 4 candidates from this set were tooled and manufactured to test within the RG2 system.
Digital fit analysis between the user and helmet system allowed the directionality of the RHEON geometries to be optimised for comfort and performance.
Statistical analysis of real-world impact locations allowed for geometry optimisation to protect real people. Focusing on dissipating energy away from impact hotspots and minimising rotational acceleration significantly reduced the probability of traumatic brain injuries.