Static Bending Response of the Human Lower Torso

This report defines humanlike quasi-static bending response characteristics of the lower torso. Six volunteers were subjected to a total of 72 tests to define response characteristics for sagittal flexion and extension bending. The effects of muscle tensing and knee bend on the response are evaluated. Sixteen loading corridors of moment of applied force about the H-point axis versus thorax-pelvis and pelvis-femur angles are suggested. The significant differences between the relaxed and tensed muscles results illustrate the need for a philosophical decision regarding which of these conditions should be adopted to define lower torso bending response for the human surrogate used in automotive safety studies.