FORENSIC

The integration of applied anatomy and biomechanics theory is a powerful analysis tool in determining cause and effect in slips trips and falls.

Applied Anatomy demonstrates the close relationship between anatomical structure and function of the human body and is concerned with muscles, joints and nervous system integration. Muscles produce and control movement and serve both a mobility and stability function in the body. The study of these functions help us to understand the complex movements of the body and the cause and effect relationship with accident injuries.

Biomechanics uses physics principles to describe and explain human movement. It is concerned with the forces produced by the body including the direction and spatial orientation of the body and body segments. A knowledge of these principles facilitates the detection and diagnosis of pathological movements that may lead to accident and injury.

Investigative processes

Test Subjects
Simulation of the accident event requires the use of test subjects. These demonstrators are selected according to their height and body mass relative to the anthropometric measurements of the injured party.

Construction
Structures relevant to the accident are reproduced to precise dimensions and textures. Typically these may include staircases, balustrades, railings and floor surfaces.

Dedicated equipment
Technical measuring devices are used to measure forces to which the injured party may have been subjected.

• Anthropometry – precise measurement of skeletal landmarks including center of mass, and the relationship to architectural structures such as stairs and railings.
• Kistler force plate – integrated within the reproduced structures, it measures forces together with friction co-efficients in three planes of motion.
• Electromyography – used to determine the sequential reflex recruitment of
  skeletal muscle.
• Kin Com – used to measure forces delivered by specific muscles.
• Film and Digitizing – used to determine precise movement patterns, range of movement, velocities and accelerations of skeletal segments.

Computer bioanimation
The bioanimation is based on the laboratory simulations, and is reproduced in situ against the background of the accident site. Any view of the accident may be selected. Anatomical dissolve of the humanoid figure is used to demonstrate the actions of the underlying anatomical structures. Graphics are superimposed to highlight features such as center of mass and the relationship between skeletal landmarks and other physical elements.