The influence of occupant related factors on neck muscle activity during low-speed automotive collisions

Whiplash injuries of the neck as a result of automobile accidents can cause long term pain and disability for some victims. Manufacturers can design safer cars that prevent whiplash injuries by creating computer models of passengers during virtual car crashes. A key aspect of designing accurate passenger models is a deep understanding of neck muscle activation. Currently, there is a deficiency of knowledge in this area for a variety of crash scenarios. In this project, we plan to measure the activity of volunteers’ neck muscles during safe low speed collisions. The crash scenarios we will study are 1) when the driver braces against the steering wheel before a crash and 2) when a driver is not looking straight ahead before a crash. The data collected will improve our understanding of human reactions during realistic impacts and help enhance car safety.

Faculty Supervisor:

Jean-Sébastien Blouin

Student:

Partner:

MEA Forensic Engineers & Scientists

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Automotive

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: