Development of 3D Physical Models for Biomechanical Modeling and Measurement of Blast Injury and Hearing Protection Mechanisms
Abstract
Direct consequences of high-intensity noise and blast injuries to the auditory system are acute hearing loss, which immediately affects the normal functioning of soldiers in combat operations, and the resultant long-term hearing disabilities that occur in a significant fraction of veterans. This proposed instrumentation project augments the currently funded research titled, ÒBiomechanical Modeling and Measurement of Blast Injury and Hearing Protection MechanismsÓ by acquiring a 3D printer (Objet260 Connex3, Stratasys, Inc.). Objectives of the currently funded research project are to determine middle ear protective mechanisms in the conductive path of impulse noise/blast into the cochlea and to develop the 3D multi-physics (acoustic, structure, and fluid) finite element (FE) model of human ear for simulation of blast injury and to assist design and evaluation of hearing protection devices (HPDs). But there is still a gap between the real structure and FE model for understanding the human ear function and relationship between structure and function. Also, there is no existing capability to rapidly manufacture such items with low-cost. Consequently the objectives are: (1) To develop 3D physical models of the human and animal ears with real or similar material properties of ear components to properly emulate response of the ear to blast exposure; (2) To fabricate mechanical parts or structures with realistic material properties to optimize design and function testing of HPDs using the 3D physical models. This multi-material 3D printing system is the key equipment to develop 3D physical models of human and animal ears with materials mimicking the bone and soft tissues, validated using chinchillas and cadaver pieces. This will add a new dimension to the current project and provide broad access to biomechanical research for engineering students at the University of Oklahoma.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 30, 2017
- Source ID
- W911NF1610352
Entities
People
- Zahed Siddique
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- United States Army
- University of Oklahoma