Paediatric bed fall computer simulation model development and validation

Abstract

Falls from beds and other household furniture are common scenarios stated to conceal child abuse. Knowledge of the biomechanics associated with short-distance falls may aid clinicians in distinguishing between abusive and accidental injuries. Computer simulation is a useful tool to investigate injury-producing events and to study the effect of altering event parameters on injury risk. In this study, a paediatric bed fall computer simulation model was developed and validated. The simulation was created using Mathematical Dynamic Modeling^® software with a child restraint air bag interaction (CRABI) 12-month-old anthropomorphic test device (ATD) representing the fall victim. The model was validated using data from physical fall experiments of the same scenario with an instrumented CRABI ATD. Validation was conducted using both observational and statistical comparisons. Future parametric sensitivity studies using this model will lead to an improved understanding of relationships between child (fall victim) parameters, fall environment parameters and injury potential.

Keywords::

• paediatric falls
• computer simulation
• model validation
• MADYMO^®

Acknowledgements

This study was funded by the Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) (Award #2009-DD-BX-0086). The opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of DOJ or OJJDP.

Notes

^1. Email: [email protected]