Calculating Impact Forces on a Human Being Struck by a Moving Vehicle

AI Thread Summary
Calculating the impact force on a human struck by a vehicle involves complex biomechanics and requires specific details about the incident. Experts often consult on these matters, especially in legal cases following traffic accidents. While force and pressure are commonly discussed, energy and momentum provide a clearer understanding of the situation. The assessment of injuries post-impact can offer better insights into the forces involved. Overall, the calculation of impact forces is nuanced and not solely reliant on basic measurements.
kevin perkins
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How do you calculate the amount of pounds per square inch force on say a female human being approximately five feet tall at 185 pounds at rest being struck by a moving vehicle at motion by gravity with a curb weight of 2700 lbs going 4 mph.
 
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It's a complicated question that requires lots of details not given.

Experts in biomechanics get paid lots of money to consult on these questions when traffic incidents result in lawsuits.
 
Also, force (or pressure) isn't necessarily a useful thing to know. Energy and momentum probably tell you more.
 
Most injury criteria are in terms of force and pressure.
 
As I understand it they
 
As I understand it they look at how far the person travels after impact and can only give a very rough idea of the likely impact forces and velocities.

I think you get a better idea from the impact injuries.
 

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