Resumen Cuando un choque automotriz ocurre, la energía de impacto se transfiere a los pasajeros lo cual provoca lesiones graves y decesos. Con el objeto de analizar el efecto de las cargas dinámicas en el cuerpo humano, el uso de maniquíes de impacto está en incremento. Sin embargo, su costo es demasiado alto, así como su accesibilidad. Por lo tanto, el presente artículo propone el diseño y desarrollo de un modelo discreto que representa la cabeza y cuello de un maniquí para pruebas de impacto utilizando el software de elemento finito Abaqus. El modelo está conformado por cabeza, región cervical (cuello) incluyendo discos cervicales y discos intervertebrales. La evaluación del conjunto cabeza-cuello se llevó a cabo a través de una prueba de péndulo. Durante la evaluación de parámetros tales como la aceleración, la fuerza de velocidad y posición angular de la cabeza fueron obtenidos. Finalmente, los resultados de la viabilidad del modelo fueron validados mediante el fenómeno de latigazo.

Abstract When car crashes occur, the impact energy is transferred to passengers, provoking fatalities, and severe injuries. In this sense, the use of dummies to analyze the effect of dynamic loads on the human body is increasing. However, its cost is generally expensive and difficult to acquire. Thus, the current article proposes designing and developing a head-neck dummy using Abaqus finite element method software. The design of the dummy model is formed by the head, and neck which are formed by cervical and intervertebral plates. The assessment of the new head-neck model was carried out by a pendulum test. During the evaluation of parameters such as acceleration, velocity force, and angular position of the head were obtained. Finally, the results of the viability of the model were validated through the whiplash phenomenon.

This article details the experimental and numerical results on the energy absorption performance of square tubular profile with circular discontinuities drilled at lengthwise in the structure. A straight profile pattern was utilized to compare the absorption of energy between the ones with discontinuities under quasi-static loads. The collapse mode and energy absorption conditions were modified by circular holes. The holes were drilled symmetrically in two walls and located in three different positions along of profile length. The results showed a better performance on energy absorption for the circular discontinuities located in middle height. With respect to a profile without holes, a maximum increase of 7% in energy absorption capacity was obtained experimentally. Also, the numerical simulation confirmed that the implementation of circular discontinuities can reduce the peak load (Pmax) by 10%. A present analysis has been conducted to compare numerical results obtained by means of the finite element method with the experimental data captured by using the testing machine. Finally the discrete model of the tube with and without geometrical discontinuities presents very good agreements with the experimental results.