The application of finite element head models in impact biomechanics research.
by
Michael D. Gilchrist
University College Dublin

Finite element models of the human head are increasingly used for the study of head impact injuries including neurotrauma and skull fracture. Understanding the advantages and limitations of individual models is extremely important when comparing results from different simulations. This present paper describes the use of multibody dynamics models to reconstruct the kinematics of fall accidents associated with real-like head injury accidents and the subsequent use of anatomically detailed three-dimensional finite element models to simulate the associated head injuries. Details are also provided of the UCD-Dublin finite element head models and a database set of documented head injury accident cases, both of which are freely available for research purposes upon request to the author.

Date received: January 31, 2008