Finite element analysis of impact between cricket ball and cantilever beam

This paper presents an explicit finite element analysis of a cricket ball impacting against a cantilever beam. The model was developed using ABAQUS and was defined in accordance with experimental data. The model is used to determine contact properties associated with impact between cricket balls and sports equipment such as helmets. The developed model was validated through experimental impact tests where the ball was made to impact a cantilever beam at inbound velocities of approximately 17, 23, 38 and 44 m/s. The model's simulation results agreed reasonably well with the experimental results. The friction effects between the cricket ball and the cantilever beam have been considered, and a friction coefficient of 0.2 was adopted for the model. This study is part of a major research project examining the performance of a range of cricket helmets. It is envisaged that the model will be used for design customization and optimization of cricket helmets and other types of protective helmets.