The objective of the project is to develop a finite element model of the head, generated from medical imaging that can be used to analyze head injury mechanisms for all population groups.

Finite element models that have been developed for the study of head injury have been generic in nature, that is, contain typical structures with representative dimensions. In conducting tests to determine injury tolerances, however, injuries vary from individual to individual. Associating generic results with specific test results blurs the ability to identify the injury mechanisms. Naturally occurring variations, such as the local variations in the anatomy and the material properties are responsible for variations in observed injury patterns and are critical in the development of head injury criteria.

Medical imaging-based anatomical data is an invaluable source of geometric and in some cases material data for developing finite element models of the human structure. Such data will be used in the development of sophisticated scalable head models representing human population groups.

Utilize sophisticated image processing techniques to develop anatomically-realistic finite element models of the head. Utilize these models in the analysis of head injury associated with motor vehicle crashes.

The ability to generate specific finite element models for individual subjects will enhance the ability to discover and validate biomechanical correlates of injury. The ability to generate specific models for various population groups will enhance the ability to design and evaluate safety criteria.

• Bandak, F.A., Tannous, R.E., Zhang, A.X., Eppinger, R.H., Toridis, T.G., and DiMasi, F.P., "Use of Finite Element Analysis and Dummy Test Measurements for the Assessment of Crash Impact Traumatic Injury", in "Advisory Group for Aerospace Research and Development". Mescalero, New Mexico. 1997.

• Bandak, F.A., "Biomechanics of Impact Traumatic Brain Injuries", in Crashworthiness of Transportation Systems: Structural Impact and Occupant Protection, J. A. Ambrosio et al (Eds.). Kluwer Academic Publishers, 53-93, 1996

• Bandak, F.A. and Eppinger, R.H., "A Three-Dimensional Finite Element Analysis of the Human Brain Under Combined Rotational and Translational Accelerations", in "38th Stapp Car Crash Conference". 1994, p. 145-163.

• DiMasi, F.P., Eppinger, R.H., and Bandak, F.A., "Computational Analysis of Head Impact Response under Car Crash Loadings", in "39th Stapp Car Crash Conference". 1995, p. 425-438.