Loads Induced in the Lumbar Spine of Seated Restrained Humans by Sideward (+Gy) Impact

Abstract

The parameters used to calculate the Dynamic Response (DR - the currently accepted injury criteria for multi-axis impact) for sideward impact are based on a very limited data set. In addition, the current model for spinal injury due to z axis acceleration is based on displacement and cannot account for the effects of off-axis loads. METHODS: Seated, restrained human volunteers were subjected to sideward impacts ranging from 0.031 to 0.250 seconds duration and amplitudes of from 4 to 7 G. Loads were measured at all restraint points and used to calculate dynamic coefficients for a model of upper body response and lumbar spine shear loading. RESULTS: Lumbar spine shear loads can be predicted using a second-order lumped parameter model with a natural frequency of 58 rad/sec and damping ratio of 0.45. CONCLUSIONS: Combining these results with similar models for the x and z axes and correlating then with injury data will allow a comprehensive model of lumbar spinal injury to be produced.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 1994
Accession Number
ADA459981

Entities

People

  • Joseph P. Strzelecki

Organizations

  • Armstrong Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Air Force Facilities
  • Air Force Research Laboratories
  • Amplitude
  • Body Weight
  • Cells
  • Coefficients
  • Data Sets
  • Dynamic Response
  • Ejection Seats
  • Escape Systems
  • Frequency
  • Load Cells
  • Resonant Frequency
  • Seats
  • Spinal Injuries
  • Spine

Fields of Study

  • Medicine

Readers

  • Control Systems Engineering.
  • Mechanical Engineering/Mechanics of Materials.
  • Neurotrauma and Rehabilitation Medicine.