A Partially Validated Finite Element Whole-Body Human Model for Organ Level Injury Prediction

A finite element whole-body human model, which represents a 50th percentile male, was developed by integrating three detailed human component models previously developed at Wayne State University (WSU): a thorax model with detailed representation of the great vessels [1], an abdomen model [2], and a shoulder model [3]. This new model includes bony structures such as scapulae, clavicles, the vertebral column, rib cage, sternum, sacrum, and illium and soft tissue organs such as the heart, lungs, trachea, esophagus, diaphragm, kidneys, liver, spleen, and all major blood vessels including the aorta. In addition to model validations already reported at the component level, the new whole-body model was further validated against two sets of experimental data reported by Hardy [4]. In these experiments, human cadavers were loaded either by a seatbelt or by a surrogate airbag about the mid-abdomen, approximately at the level of umbilicus. It is believed that exercising a validated human model is an inexpensive and efficient way to examine potential injury mechanisms. In some cases, this can provide insight into the design of subsequent laboratory experiments.