The objective of this work was to use the Global Human Body Models Consortium (GHBMC) model to analyze force variation as a function of underbody blast (UBB) loading severity and to assess the suitability of this human model for use in this environment. A design of experiments (DOE) was conducted across a wide range of input pulses representing UBB loading conditions. 51 whole body simulations were conducted (peak velocity range 2-15 m/s and time to peak 2-20 ms). The GHBMC M50-O (v 5.0) was positioned in the finite element (FE) setup, booted, and belted with a five point harness. Time history of force data were extracted from the lower extremity (calcaneus, tibia, femur), pelvis (superior and inferior pubic rami), and the spine (L5, L3, T12, T6, T1, C1). Out of the 51 simulations that were conducted (94%) yielded actionable (the last time step beyond peak load values at all areas of interest) data. The greatest force values and ranges were observed in the thoracic and lumbar spine: T12 (5.30±1.90 kN), L3 (5.39±1.91 kN), and L5 (5.83±2.06 kN). The lowest force values were observed in the femur (0.71±0.32 kN). C1 (2.5±0.53 kN) experienced more loading compared to T1 (1.07±0.23 kN). Time to peak velocity did not have a significant effect on the force response. Furthermore, the force values observed are within ranges of previously reported values. The data indicate that the model may be suitable for use in the UBB environment.
Keywords:
Finite-element, GHBMC, human body model, lower extremity, under-body blast