Adaptable skin model for assessing injuries to the human skin tissue

Body paddings allowed for use in Rugby union are intended to protect against injuries such as cuts and lacerations only. The testing regulations define an impact test using a rigid anvil and a rigid flat impactor. Work done by researchers has led to the development of a biofidelic test bed which mimics human skin tissue. Using the biofidelic test bed, researchers have developed finite element models capable of replicating skin injuries occurring during stud impacts and raking scenarios. These simulations can be time consuming and provide information on a specific impact setting and scenario. The human skin is varied and has been shown to depend upon different factors such as age, gender, location and other physiological factors such as langer lines. While the model developed can show the extent of injuries, the model has only been validated for a specific type of skin. This has allowed testing of body padding in a virtual environment to assess the efficacy of padding in reducing the extent of injuries. The aim is to develop the research by improving the model to be able to vary the skin properties and assess the extent of injury when the skin parameters are changed. Through this research, the skin model could be made adaptable based on the different physiological parameters available to try and improve the understanding of injuries occurring on the human skin. While the underlying research for this project was carried out for assessing Rugby body padding, the applications also lay in other industries, especially in the medical and biomedical engineering sector.

Applications are welcomed from candidates who have recently completed Meng or BEng Engineering related degree or equivalent to MSc in an area of engineering or have relevant industrial experience or equivalent.

Our research is part of the school of engineering, technology, and design (ETD) at Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU). Canterbury Christ Church University is located in the world famous Cathedral city amongst stunning history and heritage. Canterbury is a thriving international destination, with many students and staff choosing to study and work here, making this historic, cosmopolitan city vibrant and culturally diverse. We are strongly committed to equality and recognise the value of diverse students and staff.

How to apply

There is no closing date for these opportunities.

Contact: Dr. Adil Imam, adil.imam@canterbury.ac.uk

              : Dr Hany Hassanin, hany.hassanin@canterbury .ac.uk