A new open-source finite element lumbar spine model, its tuning and validation, and development of a tissue-based injury risk function for compression fractures
Paper in proceeding, 2023

Lumbar spine fractures have been identified as a problem in motor vehicle crashes, and it is expected that this problem might increase with the introduction of reclined postures in autonomous vehicles. Human body models provide a means to address this issue and develop countermeasures. In this study a new open-source finite element lumbar spine model and an associated tissue-based injury risk function were developed and validated. The injury risk function was based on trabecular bone compressive strain in the superior-inferior direction. The kinematic and kinetic validation showed that the model compared reasonably to experimental data, with axial compression and flexion predictions being closest to experimental results. The new risk function was found to have a good quality index. Even though the model evaluations indicated that the fracture risk was somewhat overpredicted, it was judged that the current model, together with the associated injury risk function, can be used to estimate the risk for compressive fractures in the lumbar spine, with the knowledge that these estimates are most likely somewhat conservative.

injury criteria

injury risk function

human body model

Lumbar spine

compression fracture

Author

Johan Iraeus

Chalmers, Mechanics and Maritime Sciences (M2), Vehicle Safety

Yash Niranjan Poojary

Chalmers, Mechanics and Maritime Sciences (M2), Vehicle Safety

Leila Jaber

Chalmers, Mechanics and Maritime Sciences (M2), Vehicle Safety

Jobin John

Chalmers, Mechanics and Maritime Sciences (M2), Vehicle Safety

Johan Davidsson

Chalmers, Mechanics and Maritime Sciences (M2), Vehicle Safety

Conference proceedings International Research Council on the Biomechanics of Injury, IRCOBI

22353151 (ISSN)

1048-1072

2023 International Research Council on the Biomechanics of Injury, IRCOBI 2023
Cambridge, United Kingdom,

Proactive SAFEty systems and tools for a constantly UPgrading road environment (SAFE-UP)

European Commission (EC) (EC/H2020/861570), 2020-06-01 -- 2023-05-31.

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