Development and optimization of a female-specific Biomechanical model for biodynamic response analysis: a comparison with male biomechanical models

Whole-body vibration exposure is a critical factor affecting human health and comfort, particularly for individuals operating on/off-road vehicles. Prior studies have focused on male biomechanical models. This study intentions to develop a new female-specific biomechanical model to analyze and optimize biodynamic responses under vertical vibration conditions. The objective is to introduce a ten degrees-of-freedom (dofs) biomechanical model tailored for the female body, considering the average weight of human beings. The new model has compared against existing male-oriented models to evaluate its effectiveness. The female body is divided into ten key segments: head, pelvis thorax, abdomen, left upper arm, left hand, left forearm, right upper arm, right forearm, and right hand. Mechanical properties are adjusted based on female-specific mass distribution, stiffness, and damping characteristics. The Firefly Algorithm is used for parameter optimization. The biodynamic responses, including seat-to-head transmissibility, apparent mass, and driving point mechanical impedance, are evaluated and compared with previous male models. The optimized female model exhibits distinct biodynamic response characteristics due to anatomical and biomechanical differences. The goodness of fit analysis indicates improved predictive accuracy for female subjects, suggesting the necessity for gender-specific modelling in vibration analysis.