MADYMO models of the human and dummy lower limbs to investigate biomechanical responses

Abstract

Three-dimensional Madymo models of the human and dummy lower limbs were developed to study biomechanical responses in car crashes. The models are the Hybrid III lower limb, the GM/FTSS advanced Hybrid III lower limb, and the human foot-ankle. The human model is a simplified simulation of the foot-ankle, and can be used to study ligament and malleolus injury. The human model includes the ankle, the subtalar and the metatarsal joint, ligaments and articular surfaces. Dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, inversion and eversion quasi-static tests were simulated to validate the numerical models. The models were also evaluated with the EEVC proposed certification tests for the Hybrid III foot-ankle. The models were used in frontal crash test simulations. A parameter study was carried out to investigate the possible effect of the crash acceleration pulse, and toepan intrusion and rotation on occupant biomechanical responses. Lower limb injuries were more likely to occur in the foot-ankle than in the tibia. Acceleration pulse and toepan intrusion affected dorsiflexion, while toepan rotation influenced inversion/eversion. Language: en