Finite element analysis of thorax responses under quasi-static and dynamic loading

Abstract

This study aimed at investigation of the response of the human thorax under various loading conditions. For this purpose an FE thorax model was developed based on the human anatomical structures. The human thorax consists of ribs, thoracic vertebrae and intervertebral discs, a sternum, costal cartilages and internal organs. Material properties used in this study were based on the published literature. The FE model was used to simulate the phenomenon of thorax compression. The simulations were carried out in different configurations, including the three-point bending of single rib and frontal impacting with a cylinder to a complete thorax at low speed. The results from simulations were compared with the impact responses obtained from biological tests, such as 3-point bending tests and rib structural tests. The entire thorax model was then tested by simulation of volunteer test. The responses predicted by the simulation showed a good biofidelity.