| PROJECT OBJECTIVE |
Develop a finite element model
of the human neck with sufficient anatomic detail to investigate both
bony and soft tissue injuries under automotive crash loads. Types of injuries
to be investigated include flexion, extension, compression, tension, lateral
bending, and torsion. Long-term objectives are to utilize this model in
the development of neck injury criteria and to obtain a better understanding
of neck injuries occurring in the airbag environment. |
| BACKGROUND |
Analytical modeling, in combination
with experimental testing, will provide essential information on the mechanisms
and tolerances of neck injuries. |
| PROBLEM DEFINITION |
Understanding the complex problem
of neck injuries is difficult using only experimental methods. A detailed
finite element model will be used in combination with experimental testing
to provide needed insight into the mechanisms and tolerances of neck injuries.
|
| RESEARCH APPROACH |
A detailed finite element model
of the human neck will be developed, including sufficient anatomic detail
to investigate both bony and soft tissue injuries under automotive crash
loads. This model will be validated against experimental data available
in the literature and from related experimental studies. The validated
model will then be used to study applications of interest to the automotive
safety community. |
| POTENTIAL IMPACT/APPLICATION |
All crashworthiness programs
involving neck injury mechanisms and tolerances. |
| RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS |
FY96 |
FY97 |
FY98 |
FY99 |
FY00 |
| Contract Money ($K) |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
| PROJECT MANAGER |
Rolf Eppinger
(202) 366-4720 |
| PUBLICATIONS |
- Kleinberger M. Application of Finite
Element Techniques to The Study of Cervical Spine Mechanics. 37th
Stapp Car Crash Conference Proceedings, SAE Paper No. 933131, San
Antonio, Texas, 1993.
|
| PROJECT TASKS |
| Task |
Title
and Description |
| Task
1 |
Run
simulations corresponding to experimental tests conducted at Duke
University and the Medical College of Wisconsin. Predicted injuries
will be correlated with documented pathology from the tests. This
will provide the first level of validation for the finite element
model. |
| Task
2 |
Modify
and improve model to better represent the human response to tension
and extension. Add full body representation to model. |
| Task
3 |
Add
musculature to the model and check response against human volunteer
data. This will provide a second level of validation for the model |
| Task |
Start
Date |
Projected
Completion
Date |
Status/Responsibility |
|
1
|
1/98 |
6/99 |
in
progress |
|
2
|
1/98 |
9/99 |
in
progress |
|
3
|
6/98 |
6/00 |
in
progress |
|
