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Computational Approach to Identify Different Injuries by Firearms
Sarah Teixeira Costa1, Alexandre Rodrigues Freire2, Rodrigo Ivo Matoso2
1Department of Social Dentistry, Forensic Dentistry Division, Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil.
Journal of Forensic Sciences
|March 2, 2017
Summary
Investigating gunshot wounds to the jawbone, this study simulated .40 S&W, .380, and 9mm projectiles fired at different distances. The .40 caliber caused the most significant mandibular damage, with wound characteristics varying by range and caliber.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Biomechanics
- Ballistics
Background:
- Analyzing maxillofacial gunshot wounds is challenging without the firearm or projectile.
- Understanding projectile impact on bone is crucial for forensic investigations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the external morphology of entrance wounds on a human mandible at varying firing distances (5 cm and 15 cm).
- To compare the effects of different calibers (.40 S&W, .380, 9x19mm Luger) on mandibular bone structure.
Main Methods:
- Dynamic simulation of projectile impacts (.40 S&W, .380, 9x19mm Luger) on a 3D mandibular model.
- Construction of ammunition models using free-form NURBS surfaces.
- Analysis of entrance wound morphology, maximum diameter, von Mises stress, and energy loss.
Main Results:
- All entrance wounds exhibited an oval shape.
- The .40-caliber S&W projectile fired at 5 cm resulted in the largest wound diameter (16.5 mm) and highest von Mises stress (50.8 MPa).
- Maximum energy loss (138.4 J) was observed with the .40 S&W at 15 cm, and morphological differences were noted across calibers and distances.
Conclusions:
- The .40-caliber S&W demonstrated the most significant impact on the mandible.
- Projectile caliber and firing distance significantly influence the morphological characteristics of entrance wounds on the mandible.