An Automated Tool for Predictive Neck Load Simulation During Individual Warfighting Maneuvers

This effort will develop a comprehensive, validated toolkit to aid product designers and Government procurement personnel in evaluating alternative designs for head-borne equipment. In the first phase of this project, Viz-Tek, Inc. completed an initial concept for an advanced head-neck model that will form the foundation for this tool, along with a proof-of-concept demonstration. The modeling concept is fully described in our Phase I Final Report. Ultimately, working in partnership with the University of Iowa Virtual Soldier Research Program (VSR), the advanced head-neck model will be fully integrated into the SantosTM digital human modeling environment, which has been developed by VSR to support detailed evaluations of biomechanical and physiological stresses that a Warfighter is exposed to during warfighting maneuvers. Our Phase II effort will leverage the work completed during Phase I and extensive prior research conducted by our Principal Investigator and researchers at VSR to achieve several objectives: Refinement of head and neck strength and fatigue models. Coordination of motion prediction with the head-neck strength and fatigue models. Development of subjective propensity for injury models (risk metrics). Validation of model performance during standard warfighting tasks. Development of an intuitive user interface. Demonstration of the system to ONR and USMC