Analysis of a Multi-Layered Spherical Head Impact Model

Abstract

The development of adequate protection against head injury requires a thorough knowledge of the mechanics of trauma to an unprotected head. Impact to multi-layered spherical head models are analyzed with an elastic skull, elastic tables and elastic-plastic diploe skull, and elastic tables and crushable foam diploe skull. All models have a hydrodynamic brain model. The energy absorbing skull models yield highly attenuated and smoothed tensile pressure peaks in the brain as compared to the elastic skull model. The generality of the solution technique would readily permit extension of the analyses to investigate impact to a head protected by a multi-layered helmet.