Work

Biomechanical Analysis and Injury Prediction in Pilots With Lumbar Spondylolysis Under Different Seat Inclination Angles

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background: This study aims to quantify the biomechanical effects of different seat inclinations on the normal and spondylolysis lumbar of pilots under typical fighter aircraft maneuver loads, providing data support for optimizing lumbar protection measures. Methods: Initially, three-dimensional lumbar finite element models of normal, as well as unilateral and bilateral L5 spondylolysis, were constructed, whose effectiveness was verified through mesh convergence and experiments involving vertebral range of motion and lumbar frontal impact. The models were then subjected to rapid pull-up and stable hovering maneuvers to specifically analyze the correlation between seat inclination angles (17° and 22°) and lumbar injuries with different spondylolysis states. Results: The results indicate that the biomechanical responses of three lumbar models under both seat angles remain below injury thresholds. However, the occurrence of spondylolysis at a 22° angle poses a higher risk. Conclusion: These findings are expected to provide a theoretical basis for optimizing seat designs and formulating lumbar protection strategies for pilots with spondylolysis.

Source: JOR Spine

DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.70158

Authors: Mengmeng Jin, Yingwei Li, Jiatao Wang, Qianxiang Zhou, Zhongqi Liu, Pan Guo

Institutions: Beihang University, Zhengzhou University

Language: English

Topic: Automotive and Human Injury Biomechanics

Subfield: Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,480