A female head-neck model for rear impact simulations

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Computational Modeling
• Injury Prevention

Background:

• Existing cervical spine models primarily represent the 50th percentile male.
• Females have a doubled risk of whiplash associated disorders (WADs) in rear-impact collisions.
• Lack of female-specific models limits automotive safety system development for WADs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a finite element head and neck model for a 50th percentile female.
• To assess the model's response in rear impact scenarios.
• To investigate the influence of cervical curvature on WAD risk in females.

Main Methods:

• A validated ligamentous cervical spine model was enhanced with a rigid head, soft tissues, and muscles.
• The model was simulated in physiological flexion-extension and rear impact scenarios.
• Ligament stress was evaluated across varied initial cervical curvatures.

Main Results:

• The female head and neck model demonstrated comparable kinematic responses to human subjects in flexion-extension and rear impacts.
• Increased lordotic posture correlated with a higher risk of WAD in simulated rear impacts.
• The model provides a validated tool for assessing automotive safety systems.

Conclusions:

• The validated female head and neck model addresses a critical gap in impact biomechanics research.
• This model is essential for developing effective automotive protective systems against whiplash injuries in females.
• Further integration with whole-body models will enhance its utility for injury risk assessment.