Crash simulations with Finite Element human body models would be better predictors of injury than with dummy models. During dynamic loading, human body soft tissues are exposed to varying strain rates. To characterize them, the conventional Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) is modified in order to test soft tissues. Experimentally determined engineering stress vs engineering strain curves for erector spinae, hamstring and gluteus max muscles are reported in the strain rate range of from 250/s to 1000/s. The loading curves exhibit multi linear behavior with increasing strain rate shifting the transition points between the slopes.
Keywords:
Human Body; Soft Tissue; Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar; Rate Dependency; Materials