Thesis
The biomechanics of bruising
- Creator
- Rights statement
- Awarding institution
- University of Strathclyde
- Date of award
- 2013
- Thesis identifier
- T13666
- Qualification Level
- Qualification Name
- Department, School or Faculty
- Abstract
- When an individual claims to have been subject to a physical assault, observation of physical injuries such as abrasions, avulsions and bruising can prove to be vital pieces of evidence. Bruising is the most common of these injuries, yet there is a lack of understanding of the parameters required for their formation. Furthermore there is little agreement on a standard method of documentation which allows for an accurate time of injury to be determined. Little research has been done into the mechanical parameters required to initiate bruising, thus this study investigates if such parameters can be determined and how they influence the colour development of the resulting injury. Colour studies have been performed with an aim to determine if there is a consistent colour pattern between individuals, without much success. Imaging studies have investigated if an optimal method of documentation could be employed, providing clear contrast between bruise and skin. Furthermore, they have aimed to establish if bruises can be detected while no longer visible to the naked eye. The latter category has shown more promise even though positive findings have been limited. This study investigates the specific RGB values produced in bruise development and healing after a controlled impact is applied. Furthermore, IR and UV imaging techniques are assessed on their ability to detect bruising when no longer visible to the human eye. This study found that for each applied impact a consistent profile was produced for all participants. The level of specific characteristics observed such as maximum force and peak stress varied inter-person as a result of inaccurate methodology and varying anatomy between participants. RGB value tracking showed a general trend between all participants however, the levels of each colour did not appear to be affected by the different mechanical parameters applied. Colour imaging was successful in the recording of bruising, with ultraviolet imaging also proving successful. Infrared imaging proved problematic with no positive results being observed. This study was also unsuccessful in the identification of bruising after the injury was no longer visible. It is concluded that this field of investigation requires further, more in depth, investigation before a complete understanding of bruising can be achieved.
- Resource Type
- DOI
- Date Created
- 2013
- Former identifier
- 1005050
Relations
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1. Thesis | 2021-07-02 | Public | Download |
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2._Appendix_8.zip | 2021-07-02 | Public | Download |
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3._Appendix_9.zip | 2021-07-02 | Public | Download |
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4._Appendix_10.xlsx | 2021-07-02 | Public | Download |
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5._Appendix_11.zip | 2021-07-02 | Public | Download |
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6._Appendix_13.xlsx | 2021-07-02 | Public | Download |