Analysis of a Slanted-Rib Model of the Human Thorax

Abstract

This presentation is concerned with the analysis and applicability of a slanted-rib thorax for simulation of the human thorax. It is shown that the slanted-rib configuration, because of shearing induced in intercostal material, can produce the damping and nonlinear stiffness that are observed in the human thorax. A method of analysis is developed for evaluating the force-deflection characteristics. Rib rotation, bending, and torsion are taken into account in calculating deflections. Numerical results are examined to illustrate the effects of various parameters. Loading-rate sensitivity observed during testing is attributed to the viscoelastic properties of the intercostal material.