Research

We collaborate with neuroscientists, neurobiologists and fellow engineers to develop both experimental and computational methods for analyzing biomechanical and biological responses of brain tissues to trauma events such as sports-related collisions and automotive accidents. 

Understanding Intracranial Biomechanics of the Brain 

slidebWe develop a group of numerical methods for understanding how external energy travels through the stiff skull and affects soft tissues deep inside the brain, causing acute stresses and stretches.

Interaction of the Head and Environments 

helmettestIn an effort to propose better brain protections, one critical step is to understand how the head and environments interact with each other. We address questions such as: 1) what are most critical capabilities a helmet should have to prevent concussion; and 2) how a blast overpressure bypasses the helmet and loads the brain. 

Mechanisms of Injury

mechWe cannot prevent an injury unless we know its cause. Hence, we strive to understand the mechanisms of traumatic brain injury and collaborate with neurologists, neuroscientists, and molecular/cellular experts for bridging mechanics (impact) to dysfunction (injury), which leads us closer to the cause.

Modelling Impact and Novel Design

helNew findings have been constantly made through a combination of frontier tools: physical dummy, cadaver experiment, computational simulation, constitutive equation, design optimization, statistical shape analysis, and stress propagation in the body. One example is to create novel helmet designs that can reduce critical mechanisms leading to brain damage.

Small Remotely Piloted Aircraft System

What are injury criteria for the population exposed to sRAPS (small remotely piloted aircraft system) ground collisions? We work on understanding the biomechanics and human body responses specific to sRPAS collisions, and develop appropriate injury criteria.

Whiplash Injury

Through idenfitying critical whiplash injury mechanisms, we develop new algorithms to actively reduce such an injury.