Finite element modelling of human head injuries caused by ballistic projectiles

This study provides numerical prediction tools for human head injuries caused by the impact of ballistic projectiles launched at high velocities towards that through a helmet protected or non protected anatomical segment. Two kinds of impact configurations are considered: on the one hand, the rear effect caused by a ballistic projectile launched at high velocity towards the helmet of a military personnel, and on the other hand, the direct impact of a flashball towards a non protected head. Three finite element models are therefore developed: a model of the head including its principle anatomical components, a model of an aluminium plate impacted by a steel bullet and a model of a flashball. Brain pressure and brain Von Mises stress, the to the head applied force as well as the global strain energy of the skull are calculated. A linear fracture of the skull is predicted in the case of the rear effect impact configuration whereas the brain tissues tolerance limits for brain neurological lesions seem not to be reached whatever the impact configuration considered.