Physiological loading of cartilage replacement materials in a bioreactor environment

Trying to replace injured cartilage by implants is a common practice in biomedical engineering. These implants can be non-seeded or seeded with human cartilage cells. To initiate cell multiplication and oriented cell growth in cell seeded implants, the implants are cultivated and usually stimulated electrically or mechanically in a bioreactor before implanting. In the present study, a knee testing bench combined with a bioreactor environment is developed. Doing so, it is possible to stimulate such implants controlled in a physiologically consistent, multi-dimensional way. The implants are placed in a recreated human knee joint and stimulated with several physiological load cycles of reproduced walking. After some days, the implanted material can be removed and mechanically and biologically evaluated in cooperation with the RWTH Aachen University Hospital. The new experimental set-up enables us for the first time to study the remodelling effect, the efficiency of the preconditioning as well as the influence of the body-conformable load on the material. Furthermore, the need of cell colonisation in the implants shall be investigated. To understand the correlation between tissue remodelling and mechanical load history, the experiment is also numerically investigated, based on a geometrically realistic FE model of the recreated human knee and appropriate material models for the involved structures. Doing so, the strains and stresses, as well as the shear forces in the implant can be evaluated. The results will be compared to experimental data. (© 2016 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

An examination of tissue engineered scaffolds in a bioreactor

Replacement tissues, designed to fill in articular cartilage defects, should exhibit the same properties as the native material. The aim of this study is to foster the understanding of, firstly, the mechanical behavior of the material itself and, secondly, the influence of cultivation parameters on cell seeded implants as well as on cell migration into acellular implants. In this study, acellular cartilage replacement material is theoretically, numerically and experimentally investigated regarding its viscoelastic properties, where a phenomenological model for practical applications is developed. Furthermore, remodeling and cell migration are investigated. (© 2016 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Finite element modeling of finite deformable,biphasic biological tissues with transversely isotropic statistically distributed fibers: toward a practical solution

The distribution of collagen fibers across articular cartilage layers is statistical in nature. Based on the concepts proposed in previous models, we developed a methodology to include the statistically distributed fibers across the cartilage thickness in the commercial FE software COMSOL which avoids extensive routine programming. The model includes many properties that are observed in real cartilage: finite hyperelastic deformation, depth-dependent collagen fiber concentration, depth- and deformation-dependent permeability, and statistically distributed collagen fiber orientation distribution across the cartilage thickness. Numerical tests were performed using confined and unconfined compressions. The model predictions on the depth-dependent strain distributions across the cartilage layer are consistent with the experimental data in the literature.     

A bioactive interface approach for the simulation of mechanically stimulated osseointegration of hip joint endoprostheses

In this contribution, an approach on the mechanically stimulated osseointegration of hip joint endoprostheses considering load cases of daily movements is presented. The mechanical behavior of the bone-implant interface is modeled with a material model adopted from computational plasticity. Under consideration of a detailed analysis of the interface conditions, limiting factors for the osseointegration process are identified and the bone ingrowth prediction is performed. (© 2010 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Experimental and numerical investigation of different types of articular cartilage replacement materials

The aim of the presented work is to characterize the mechanical properties of different types of articular cartilage replacement materials. For this propose an elastic-diffusion model is developed to identify the elastic and diffusion properties of the replacement materials. A set of unconfined compression tests were performed with several kinds of implants. By means of finite element simulation integrated with an user-defined material model, the material parameters were identified. (© 2011 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Biomechanical modelling of cellular articular cartilage replacement tissues

The aim of the present study is to investigate the strength and damping properties of cellular articular cartilage replacement material. For this purpose, a viscoelastic-diffusion model for the acellular water-saturated condensed collagen gel type I is proposed and validated experimentally. Moreover, a remodelling law for the cell seeded collagen gel is introduced. For an experimental study of the interaction between fibre growth and mechanical stimulation, bioreactors are developed and histological investigations are carried out. (© 2010 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Identification of material behavior via a Finite Element Model Updating strategy

In this paper an inverse and iterative method for the identification of material behavior is presented, based on the Finite Element Model Updating (FEMU) strategy. The FE simulations are performed with a commercial FE software code, using a self-implemented elastic material model at finite strain. The iterative identification procedure is based on an experimental test (numerical) whose measured kinematic values are compared to the corresponding simulated ones. Through an optimization algorithm the material parameters are varied in a way that the least-squares sum of the kinematic values is minimized and the optimal material parameters yielding the material behavior are identified. (© 2014 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Numerical Simulation of Spot-Weld Joints under Crash Loading

This paper compares FE simulations of spot-weld joints for dual-phase steel under different load cases by using damage models of Gurson-Tvergaard-Needleman (GTN) and its two extensions, GTN-Johnson-Cook and GTN-Hutchinson. Spot-weld specimens have three zones depending with different material properties: Base material, heat-affected zone and fusion zone. The characterization of the base material is straightforward. The other two zones are characterized with specifically heat-treated specimens. For each zone, flat smooth tensile, flat notched tensile and Iosipescu-shear specimen are used in order to obtain the damage behavior for different triaxiality values. GTN damage model parameters are calibrated with the help of smooth and notched flat tensile specimens. The parameters of the above mentioned extensions of GTN damage model are identified with the help of Iosipescu-shear specimen. Finally, the calibrated material models are used in the FE simulation of the spot-weld specimens under quasi static-load case (10 mm/min) for loading directions of 0°, 30°, 60°, 90°. The numerical force-displacement results are in good agreement with experimental results. (© 2010 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Modelling of material and structural inhomogeneities in timber structures

The numerical simulation of timber structures by means of FEM has been an object of recent research. Most of the material models developed so far are based on idealized assumptions by disregarding inhomogeneities. Here, models to capture structural inhomogeneities in terms of branches and knots and the resulting deviation in grain course in a three-dimensional FE analysis are presented. Besides, naturally varying material properties referred to as material inhomogeneities have to be considered in the structural analysis. Due to the insufficient experimental data, the uncertainty model fuzziness is applied. (© 2011 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

On the simulation of textile reinforced composites and structures

This paper presents experimental and numerical methods to perform simulations of the mechanical behavior of textile reinforced composites and structures. The first aspect considered refers to the meso-to-macro transition in the framework of the finite element (FE) method. Regarding an effective modelling strategy the Binary Model is used to represent the discretized complex architecture of the composite. To simulate the local response and to compute the macroscopic stress and stiffness undergoing small strain a user routine is developed. The results are transfered to the macroscopic model during the solution process. The second aspect concerns the configuration of the fiber orientation and textile shear deformation in complex structural components. To take these deformations which affect the macroscopic material properties into account they are regarded in a macroscopic FE model. (© 2006 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Comparison of different plasticity criteria for trabecular bone failure modelling

Different plasticity criteria applied to failure analysis of trabecular bone are compared. A cylindrical sample of bovine trabecular bone is mechanically tested in uniaxial compression/tension with 2% applied strain. Obtained response in compared to responses obtained using finite element model of trabecular bone inner structure subjected to the same loading conditions. FE model is reconstructed from micro–CT images. Elastic material properties at the level of trabecula are determined using nanoindentation. Compared plasticity criteria are based on these elastic material properties, i.e. on Young's modulus of elasticity from nanoindentation. The objective of the paper is to demonstrate the importance to reflect the anisotropic plasticity and to evaluate variation in obtained response when the anisotropy is neglected. (© 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Computational simulation of piezo-electrically stimulated bone remodeling surrounding teeth implant

Since the natural ligament responsible for the fixation of teeth in jawbone is destroyed when artificial replacements are implanted, the mechanical stimulation of the bone is reversed. Idea of this research project is the development of active implants which provide additional electrical stimulation for bone adaption. A new electromechanically driven bone remodeling theory will be developed and the osseointegration of bone implants has been simulated by means of bio-active interface theory. The thin bone-implant interface is described by the Drucker-Prager plasticity model. Besides the consistent combination of electromechanical bone remodeling simulation, 3D-finite element model of lower mandible has been reconstructed. As the micromotions at the implant-abutment level are reported to be a major determinant of longterm implant success, the osseointegration process is limited by micromotion threshold. The applicability is indicated on a dental implant in order to optimize new developed techniques for activating implants with piezo-electric coatings. (© 2015 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

An extended sequential limit analysis based on moving coordinates for pressurized spherical cap membranes with large shape change

Sequential limit analysis (SLA) is an effective and normally used method to calculate the plastic limit load of structures with large deformation. However, attribute to the assumption of neglecting the changing behavior of shape and plane stress direction, the conventional SLA method would be inaccurate in the plastic response prediction for the large-shape-change structures, especially for the pressurized spherical cap. This research develops a novel analytical model for the pressurized spherical cap based on the advanced SLA method, which features introducing the moving coordinate system and considering of the changing behavior of shape and plane stress direction into the conventional method. With the proposed method, the effects of geometry and material parameters on the plastic limit load are analyzed. Compared with the validating FE simulation results of ABAQUS software, the newly extended SLA method performances a more precise prediction of the load deflection response and plastic limit load than the normal one. Due to the limit yield degree and bending moment, the accuracy of the new model will increase with the increase of yield strength and radius. The larger the initial deflection of the pressurized spherical cap is, the smaller the relative error between the analysis results of advanced SLA and FE method is. Moreover, this newly proposed SLA remains effective and accurate within a wide range of the initial thickness-curvature radius ratio, especially for low elasticity modulus materials.     

Numerical Simulation of the Application of NiTi Alloys in Medical Technologies

Shape memory alloys are nowadays already established as a material which is able to solve exceptional tasks in practical applications. Particularly, its utilization in the field of medical technologies increases steadily. For example micro tools (staple, catheters) and implants (coronary stents) are made out of Nickel-Titanium well known as a basic shape memory alloy. Apart from the advantages like the avoidance of auxiliary components and joints in the system and to utilize the high volume specific work of shape memory alloys, NiTi alloys exhibit a good biocompatibility. This property is necessary with regard to either permanent or temporary implants. To optimize the use of NiTi alloys in the scope of medical technologies, the support of the development of applicable tools by numerical simulations is highly recommended. However the complex material behaviour containing a profoundly thermomechanical coupling poses indeed a big challenge to the material modeling and its implementation into a finite element code. Particularly, the material model proposed by Helm [1] proves to be a firm model containing the most common properties of shape memory alloys, as the pseudoelasticity, the shape memory effect and the two-way effect. In the present contribution the FE modelling of a medical staple used in foot surgery is presented by considering the model of Helm which was investigated by the authors to improve its performance in the finite element method [2]. The foot staple, produced by a group of members of the SFB 459 which is funded by the DFG, avails the shape memory effect to excite the desired clamping effect [3]. (© 2005 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

A finite element model based on statistical two-scale analysis for equivalent heat transfer parameters of composite material with random grains

In this paper, a new finite element model based on statistical two-scale analysis for predicting the equivalent heat transfer parameters of the composite material with random grains is presented and its convergence, its error result and the symmetry, positive property of equivalent heat transfer parameters matrix are also proved. Firstly, some definitions of the probability space and the composite material with random grains are described and the STSA formulation predicting the equivalent heat transfer parameters of the composite material are briefly reviewed. Next, a finite element formulation and its corresponding procedure for the composite material with random grains is described. Then, the convergence, the error estimate and the symmetry, positive property of the equivalent heat transfer parameters matrix computed by FE based on STSA are proved. The numerical result shows the validity of the FE model based on STSA and the convergence and the symmetry, positive property of the equivalent heat transfer parameter matrix of the composite material with random grains by the FE model.     

Application of Homogenization FEM Analysis to Aluminum Honeycomb Core Filled with Polymer Foams

The effect of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) foam filler on elastic properties of a regular hexagonal aluminum honeycomb core is studied. The unit cell strain energy homogenization approach based on the finite element method (FEM) within ABAQUS code is applied for prediction of effective material constants of the foam-filled honeycomb core. The developed FE model is then used to observe a three-dimensional stress state over the hexagonal unit cell and, thereby, to assess the influence of the foam-filling on the distribution of the local interfacial stresses. (© 2010 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Investigation of Friction in a Natural Cartilage-Microporous Ultrahigh-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene Pair

Investigation results for a friction pair incorporating a UHMWPE specimen with a microporous surface layer carrying an electret charge and a counterbody of an animal cartilage are presented. Based on the results obtained, theoretical and experimental bases for manufacturing metal-polymer unipolar heads of hip joint endoprostheses have been developed. The experimental results have proved that the modified polymer head of the unipolar hip joint excels the initial one when operated in a human organism.     

3D FEA of Size Effects in Deformation of Thin Metallic Films

The purpose of this work is to analyze size effects in the deformation occurring during nanoindentation-tests of thin metallic films on ceramic substrates. It is well known that classical phenomenological theories of plasticity are hardly applicable in cases of very small dimensions of a body [1]. Thus, the dependency of the mechanical behavior of thin films on the thickness can not be studied in the framework of classical theories. In order to simulate numerically the deformation, a specific material model has been chosen which is able to account for size effects. It bases on the theory of ”Mechanism Strain Gradient” (MSG) plasticity [2] in conjunction with the deformation theory of plasticity. The material model has been implemented via the user defined element subroutine (UEL) in the commercial FE code ABAQUS/Standard as a ten-node tetrahedron-element. With the developed subroutine the deformation of thin copper films on Si substrates during nanoindentation-tests has been simulated. Different material models of the indentor (rigid and elastic) as well as different friction conditions between the film and the pyramidal indentor were tested. Furthermore, the influence of an additional oxide layer on the films surface has been analysed. In order to verify the numerical investigations, results from nanoindentation experiments have been used for comparison [4]. The FE simulations for different thicknesses in the range of 100-600nm showed a very good agreement with the experiments. In particular, the size dependency of the force-displacement curves, calculated by using the developed subroutine, is in rather good agreement with experiments. (© 2006 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)     

Finite element analysis of multi-particle impact on erosion in abrasive water jet machining of titanium alloy

Abrasive water jets (AWJs) are finding growing applications for machining a wide range of difficult-to-machine materials such as titanium alloys, stainless steel, metal matrix and fibre reinforced composites, etc. Current applications of AWJs include machining of Titanium alloys for aircraft components and bio-medical implants to removal of aircraft engine coatings. This paper presents the application of an elasto-plastic model based explicit finite element analysis (FEA) to model the erosion behaviour in abrasive water jet machining (AWJM). The novelty of this work includes FE modelling of the effect of multiple (twenty) particle impact on erosion of Grade 5 Titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V). The influence of abrasive particle impact angle and velocity on the crater sphericity and depth, and erosion rate has been investigated. The FE model has been validated for stainless steel and yields largely improved results. Further, the same FEA approach has been extended to model the multi-particle impact erosion behaviour of Titanium alloy.