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A finite element (FE) model of the THOR lower extremity (THOR-LX) was developed to enhance research using the THOR-LX. A three-dimensional representation of the physical THOR-LX was created with the same functionality: 3-axis ankle rotation, compliant tibia element, Achilles' cable, and deformable skin. The model outputs the same measurements as the THOR-LX hardware. The completed finite element model was correlated with the physical THOR-LX by simulating ten physical experiments and comparing the results. It was concluded that the FE model may be used to reasonably predict the results of physical tests performed with the THOR-LX.

This study evaluated the response of restrained post-mortem human subjects (PMHS) in 40 km/h frontal sled tests. Eight male PMHS were restrained on a rigid planar seat by a custom 3-point shoulder and lap belt. A video motion tracking system measured three-dimensional trajectories of multiple skeletal sites on the torso allowing quantification of ribcage deformation. Anterior and superior displacement of the lower ribcage may have contributed to sternal fractures occurring early in the event, at displacement levels below those typically considered injurious, suggesting that fracture risk is not fully described by traditional definitions of chest deformation. The methodology presented here produced novel kinematic data that will be useful in developing biofidelic human models.