{"id":947,"date":"2024-01-06T15:49:00","date_gmt":"2024-01-06T15:49:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bryanbreslov.net\/?page_id=947"},"modified":"2026-03-31T11:39:23","modified_gmt":"2026-03-31T15:39:23","slug":"blunt-force-trauma-simulator","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/benbreslov.com\/?page_id=947","title":{"rendered":"Blunt Force Trauma Simulator"},"content":{"rendered":"

Blunt Force Trauma Simulator<\/p>\n

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Project Introduction<\/h3>\n

This project started when our project sponsor approached us with an idea to help address domestic violence in a more tangible way. The goal was to create a tool that could show, in a clear and measurable form, how much force is actually delivered during a strike, something that is often not fully understood in the moment.When people act out of anger, they typically aren\u2019t thinking about the actual magnitude of the force they\u2019re applying or the damage it can cause. This system was designed to quantify that. As a first-time batterer intervention tool, it allows users to physically interact with the model and see a direct representation of the force behind their actions. By turning something abstract into something measurable and comparable, the goal is to make those consequences more real and easier to understand. While not a complete solution, it provides a meaningful way to increase awareness and encourage better decision-making.<\/p>\n

My Roll<\/h3>\n

I was responsible for the full mechanical design of the system, developing the physical model that connected the sensing, electronics, and overall user interaction. This role sat at the center of the project, requiring coordination between the physical structure, how force was applied, and how it would ultimately be measured and interpreted. A major focus of the design was impact absorption and durability. The system uses multiple layers of shock absorption, including a cast silicone ring, internal compliant elements around a central metal rod acting as a femur, and additional damping behind the impact window where force is measured. The structure was intentionally designed to flex and rotate under load using spring elements, preventing failure while still allowing accurate force transmission to the sensors. Beyond performance, the system was designed to be practical to manufacture and maintain. All components were designed to be 3D printable, modular, and easily replaceable in case of damage. This enabled rapid iteration during development while also supporting the long-term goals of scalability and broader deployment.<\/p>\n

Meet The Team<\/h3>\n

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Benjamin Breslov<\/p>\n

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Isabelle Benson-Clarke <\/p>\n

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Zoe Goodman<\/p>\n

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Amitai Erfanian<\/p>\n

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Theodore Winter<\/p>\n

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Physical Model<\/h3>\n

The physical model we’ve meticulously crafted is a state-of-the-art representation of the effects of blunt force trauma, with a particular focus on the thigh region. Drawing a parallel to the way the Arduino platform adeptly senses and translates signals, our model is robustly engineered to endure and replicate the aftermath of impacts equivalent to substantial kinetic energy. Its resilience is just one facet; the model is also equipped with a sophisticated visual feedback system. This system vividly illustrates injuries, from surface-level bruises to the more concealed internal damages. By providing such a tangible and visual demonstration, our model stands as a beacon of awareness and education, shedding light on the profound consequences of blunt force injuries.<\/p>\n

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Software And User Interface <\/h3>\n

Our Software and User Interface is the digital nerve center of our project. Just as a conductor orchestrates every note in a symphony, our software seamlessly integrates and manages every input and output. It’s not just about processing data; it’s about presenting it in an intuitive, user-friendly manner. Through our carefully designed interface, users can effortlessly navigate, interact, and extract the information they need. This harmonious blend of backend processing and frontend presentation ensures that our software isn’t just functional, but also a pleasure to use.<\/p>\n

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Outcomes<\/h3>\n

Our demonstrative tool is central to our batterer intervention initiative. Designed to address rising interpersonal violence, the model visually displays the aftermath of blunt force trauma. Paired with software that equates the force to real-world scenarios, like a boxer’s punch or a car crash, we aim to enlighten perpetrators about the true extent of their actions. By making the design accessible to all, we hope to deter future violent acts and broaden the tool’s impact across various settings.<\/p>\n

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WPI Presidential Award and <\/h3>\n

More Information <\/h3>\n

We are thrilled to announce that our team is one of five distinguished teams awarded the prestigious WPI Presidential Award. For further details about this awarded, please click here<\/a>. To delve deeper into the details of our project and gain a comprehensive understanding, we invite you to visit the WPI Archives website. By clicking here<\/a>, you can access our complete report and presentation, offering a thorough insight into our research, findings, and recommendations. <\/p>\n

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Update as of 3\/12\/2024<\/h3>\n

The group continued work of the model adding new sensors to increase accuracy and get more data such as linear slide potentiometers and accelerometers. New parts were also added to increase realistic material properties of the thigh such as a printed TPU shock absorber pictured to the left. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Blunt Force Trauma Simulator Project Introduction This project started when our project sponsor approached us with an idea to help address domestic violence in a more tangible way. The goal was to create a tool that could show, in a clear and measurable form, how much force is actually delivered during a strike, something that … <\/p>\n

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