HoloLens Applications for the Demonstration of an Advanced Anthropomorphic Test Device for Under-Body Blast and the Dissemination of Finite Element Analysis Results

Abstract

The Warrior Injury Assessment Manikin (WIAMan) crash test dummy was developed in response to an Army need for better injury prediction capabilities in under-body blast testing. Concurrently, a finite element model (FEM, a physics-based computational model) was developed at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) to accelerate the design process and provide simulated injury prediction capabilities. However, two main issues arose when presenting the work to a broad audience. First, it was difficult to convey the results and impact of the FEM. Augmented reality suited this problem well because of the technical nature of the work and the lack of an off-the-shelf software solution the layperson could use to manipulate the model. Second, it was necessary to circumvent the need for transporting the human-sized physical anthropomorphic test device (ATD). A new method for exploring the dummy was required, but one that still allowed an audience to experience the technology firsthand. Hence, two complementary Microsoft HoloLens applications were developed at APL to allow a user to explore the inner workings of the ATD and see it in a simulated blast environment. These apps connect the user with the project in their own surroundings while providing information about various ATD parts at the user’s pace. The applications have been demonstrated to diverse audiences at various venues both locally and across the country and were successful in conveying the impact of the project.