Partner news: Simpleware work with ANSYS on new solutions for sports concussion

January 10, 2016

Exeter-based software company Simpleware are working with simulation leaders ANSYS® (Canonsburg, PA, USA) to develop breakthroughs in reducing the risk of football concussion through 3D models.
Image-based modelling of the human skull and brain from computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) enables detailed analysis of how the anatomy responds to impact. With concussion a serious problem in contact sports, accurate 3D models can be tailored to simulations that predict different types of impact. Results can be used to evaluate helmet designs and the lasting effect of impact. Simpleware collaborated with the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) to create a high-quality 3D head model, which has applications to multiple areas, including head impact in military situations.
One of the main technological breakthroughs of the Simpleware-NRL model is its flexibility and ability to be adapted to include different objects such as helmets. The model used by ANSYS was particularly set up to examine the effect of shock waves on a head wearing a helmet; results give indications of where the magnitude of shock waves can be reduced, and how this can be translated into new shock-absorbing materials. With simulations based on 3D scans, information on individual athletes can be translated into 3D printed helmets that reduce their risk of specific injury. Continuing research into modelling from image data offers the potential to quickly and accurately understand common injuries in a virtual environment.
Learn more about this project at: http://www.ansys-blog.com/reducing-concussions-in-football-with-simulation/, and visit http:///www.simpleware.com to explore 3D image-based modelling.