Based on finite element models of specific suspicious skull fracture cases, a dynamic finite element simulation of the fracture process will be performed. The finite element model will be extracted from a CT-scan of the specific case and the simulation can e.g. focused on the influence on the spongius layer in the skull and the influence of a detailed dynamic cohesive element model on the subsequently crack predictions.

Purpose

An important issue in forensic medicine is to determine how a certain skull fracture arose. This information can be critical in establishing if a criminal offense has taken place. Today, however, the medical examiner chiefly relies on his experience since only a few scientific methods are known, and these are not considered sufficiently reliable. Nevertheless, during the latest decade commercial finite element codes and computers have reached a stage where accurate numerical finite element predictions of the skull fracture cases are possible.

Description

The aim of this project is to investigate skull fractures. This will be done by creating a finite element model of the skull and use it to simulate a blunt blow to the head. The model will be made using CT-scans from Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Copenhagen. The loading during an impact will be investigated using the finite element model and then evaluated to assess where fractures could arise. The project will continue the work introduce in a student work focusing on transforming the CT-scans into the commercial finite element code Abaqus, with subsequently preliminary simulation of the impact event. The new project will continue this work focusing on improving the simulation in order to obtain realistic prediction of the fracture process.



The simulated back part of the skull with the impact event end the subsequently predicted cracks.

Qualifications

Mechanics of materials and continuum mechanics, finite element modeling and some programming experience.

Project form

Thesis Final year project

Subjects

Materials

Duration