Abstract
Effective thoracic mass is an important parameter in specifying mathematical and mechanical models (such as crash dummies) of humans exposed to impact conditions. A method is developed using a numerical optimizer to determine effective thoracic mass (and mass distribution) given a number of acceleration signals and a force signal response. Utilizing previously reported lateral and frontal impact tests with human cadaveric test specimens in a number of different conditions, the effective thoracic mass is computed. The effective thoracic masses are then computed for a variety of crash dummies exposed to identical test conditions.
Highlights
Effective mass is an elusive but essential parameter needed to assure that a mechanical or mathematical analog is an accurate representation of a system of interest
A system was developed for determining thoracic effective mass based on acceleration signals and an impact force signal recorded during a test
The system uses a numerical optimizer to determine masses that, when mUltiplied by acceleration signals, minimize the cumulative error squared in a force balance on the system
Summary
Effective mass is an elusive but essential parameter needed to assure that a mechanical or mathematical analog is an accurate representation of a system of interest. The effective mass of thoracic components is very important to such critical issues as the biofidelity of proposed crash dummies. If a lumped parameter computer model, such as the model of the human thorax proposed by Lobdell et al (1972, 1973), is used to simulate a system of interest, the effective mass of each lumped mass in the model has a profound effect on the predictions of the model. Effective mass is defined as a constant property that, when multiplied by the second time derivative of displacement (i.e., acceleration), yields the force resulting from an impact. It is important to understand the effective mass may not necessarily be determined solely from the static mass properties of a component of a system
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
