Author(s)

M. Zhang & C. Roberts

Abstract

Development of a nonlinear finite element model for analysis of stump/socket interface stresses in below-knee amputee M. Zhang & C. Roberts Department of Medical Engineering & Physics, King's College School of Medicine & Dentistry, ABSTRACT An nonlinear finite element model was established to predict the stresses distribution at the stump/socket interface in below-knee amputees. The limb tissues and socket liner, based on a measured amputee's geometry, were respectively meshed into 972 and 486 3D 8-node isoparametric brick elements. Bone and the socket shell were assumed to have rigid boundaries. An important feature of this model is the use of 486 interface elements (ABAQUS INTER4) which mimic the interface friction condition. The model was run on a Convex C3840 supercomputer using the ABAQUS finite element package and the FEMVIEW post-processing package. The model can be used to predict normal and shear stresses at the interface with loading; and to analyse the effect

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