Develop a comprehensive finite element model of the thoraco-abdominal regions including all major internal organs that will serve as a tool for the assessment of organ injury potential.

Simple models of the body's response to impact loading, such as Lobdell's model of chest deflection, have been developed to correlate local, surface deformations with impact loading for specific test conditions. An anatomically-based finite element model of the thorax has been developed and has provided encouraging results in predicting the magnitude and distribution of lung contusions.

Validate the finite element model predictions against test data to produce scientifically defensible techniques to extrapolate thoraco-abdominal injury criteria to the various population groups.

Develop an anatomically based finite element model of the thoraco-abdominal region including all of the major internal organs based on physiological landmarks and allowing for scaling between population groups. Integrate male and female model characteristics so that gender differences can be accounted for in model applications. Use material properties available for each organ and validate against the unified thoracic response data set developed in project B.02.01.06.09.

A thoraco-abdominal model will allow a scientifically based scaling of thoracic and abdominal injury criteria applicable for use in modifications or upgrades of FMVSS 208 and 214 for various population groups. The comprehensive model will allow rapid and reliable evaluation of new or modified restraint systems.

This project is on-going at minimal NHTSA funding with the completion date to be determined based on FY 1999 funding.