A Mechanical Impedance Model for Head Injury Due to Linear Impacts

The mechanical impedance of the human and various other primate species heads was determined over the frequency 30-5000 hertz. A simple model was developed that closely follows the observed impedance characteristics. Spring and damping constants were evaluated and comparisons between species obtained. An impact tolerance curve was computed based on the model predictions with a maximum strain criteria. Various input pulse shapes were analyzed and the effect of pulse shape and duration studied for the different species. Published values of tolerable impulses were examined and compared with the model predictions. Presented at the Symposium on Biodynamics Models and Their Applications held at Dayton, Ohio, on 26-28 Oct 11970. Sponsored in part by Public Health Service, Washington, D. C. and National Highway Safety Bureau, Washington, D. C. Paper also included in AD0739501.