3D Finite Element Modeling of the Lower Limb

Abstract: This thesis project provides a method to simulate the internal mechanical properties of the undeformed human lower limb when an external force is applied. The value of the external force is determined by the deformed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images, which is converted into displacement instead. The purpose is to predict the area of the lower limb that is at most risk of wounds. The tissues of the human lower limb that are concerned in this study are: skin, fat, muscle, fascia, tibia bone, fibula bone and bone marrow. MRI images taken of an undeformed lower limb from experimental people is used to create a three-dimensional finite element model. During the simulation, the finite element model considers the nonlinear behaviors of individual soft tissues instead of lumping them together. Simulation results are presented as a curve of the external force and deformation of the different types of lower limb tissues and it shows the stress distribution in the lower limb.