Helmet methodology

[richsc]

The problem of conveying specifications to Depeeka has led me to the question of whether the academic world has a methodology for measuring helmets other than using various semantic terminology. I remember from way back when I worked for the physical anthropology folks at the Smithsonian doing skull charts, which are exact side/top/front/back photos of the skull collection but reduced and measured precisely on several anatomical points of the skull (nasion-basion is the one I remember). If there isn't any discipline like this in the academic world, it seems like as good a time as any to propose it.
If accepted by the academic world, it would be a good gift from RAT, and something you Euros outthere could actually present at a conference.

But we do need to agree on a methodology, which points of the helmet to measure, what to name them, etc. I personally like the idea of ratios, since the Romans liked them so much, but exact measurements can be converted.

Considering the variation of helmets over the centuries, there are certain constants, like the length front back, the side to side, and the depth, but those exact points need to be agreed upon. Similarly to things like neckguard angle; measured from where? Some line drawings by Matt/Magnus show the distinct curve of the helmet from the side.

Thoughts?