Applying Modeling and Simulation to Predict Human Injury due to a Blast Attack on a Shipboard Environment

Abstract

Computer models simulating blast effects on ship personnel are needed, but thus far, development of models has focused on simulating blast effects on ship structure and equipment. Thus, capability gaps exist in predicting the type and severity of injuries from surface or underwater weapon impact, estimating medical response requirements, and determining outcomes of patients. The Human Injury & Treatment (HIT) model addresses these gaps. Algorithms are utilized for scoring the type and severity of injuries predicted, using a variety of existing and developing injury models. Additional algorithms determine the post-injury level of incapacitation by evaluating how a physical impairment can impact performance of a task. A manning model simulates movement of personnel aboard the ship (Young, Allen, & Minks, 2011). It functions iteratively with the Tactical Medical Logistics (TML+) code, a medical response model predicting resource utilization and patient outcomes (Mitchell, 2004). Impact: HIT will help the Navy and commercial maritime interests anticipate medical response requirements resulting from blast attacks to a ship, and understand the impact of personnel loss on the crew’s ability to perform damage control.