Biomechanical injury risk analysis of a child dummy under cricket ball impacts: A finite element study

Children, while playing cricket, may get exposed to impact-related injuries. Most available studies have been done on adult players. Pediatric biomechanics concerning cricket ball impacts have been unexamined, supported by assumptions and surrogate models. This research used a finite element model of a child dummy, a ball, and a steel chair. Four conditions based on anatomical regions: (A) Anterior precordial, (B) Subnasal, (C) Right temporal, and (D) Cranial vertex impact were simulated by impacting a cricket ball at 5, 10, or 15 m/s. Injury indicators (Cervical Spine Injury Criterion, Thoracic Compression Criteria, neck loads and bending moments, Neck Injury Criteria, head displacement, velocity and acceleration, and head injury criteria) were computed for each simulation. Von Mises stresses were computed on the skin. Computed values of indicators were compared with standard data to predict injury levels (AIS values) at different head, neck, and chest. At 15 m/s, thoracic compression attained 49.59 mm, exceeding the AIS 4 criteria for severe damage. The HIC¹⁵ value of 297.7 at 10 m/s implies mild concussions; however, the peak head acceleration of 135.82 g signifies a considerable danger of brain injury. Subnasal impacts at 10 m/s exhibited N _ij  = 0.72, indicating cervical ligament tension. Research indicates elevated stress concentrations at impact locations with increased impact velocity. This study provides a comprehensive quantitative data into pediatric impact biomechanics during cricket play. This study identifies key anatomical vulnerabilities that can inform the design of improved protective gear and support the development of safer play conditions for young athletes.