A finite element approach and experiments to assess the effectiveness of hip protectors.
The potential of hip protectors to prevent femur fracture is addressed in this study. A mechanical model of the human hip was developed and used to perform impact tests with different types of hip protectors. In addition a finite element model of the test device was established which allows simulations of the impact tests. The different principles of energy-shunting systems and energy-absorbing systems were demonstrated. Furthermore misplacement of a hip protector can be simulated. Hence the FE model was shown to be a suitable tool for future hip protector design.
Schmitt
K-U
KU
Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) and University of Zurich, Switzerland. schmitt@biomed.ee.ethz.ch
Spierings
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Derler
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D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D005264:Femoral Fractures / Q000517:prevention & control*; D020342:Finite Element Analysis; D006801:Humans; D011482:Protective Devices / Q000592:standards*; D013314:Stress, Mechanical