ME-484 / 3 credits

Teacher: Terrier Alexandre

Language: English


Summary

Students understand and apply numerical methods (FEM) to answer a research question in biomechanics. They know how to develop, verify and validate multi-physics and multi-scale numerical models. They can analyse and comment results in an oral presentation and a written report.

Content

  • Use of numerical methods in biomechanics through some examples (tissue engineering, mechanical biology, artificial organs, external lectures from academics and industry)
  • Partial Differential Equations reviewed in this context
  • General physics (solid, fluid, heat, transport) reviewed and extended through examples
  • Finite Element Method explained through practical examples.
  • Multi-physics and coupling problems
  • Importance of Verification, Validation and Uncertainty Quantification
  • Practical examples discussed in classroom
  • Weekly exercises in different fields of biomechanics
  • Group projects

Keywords

Biomechanics, numerical methods, multi-physics, coupling

Learning Prerequisites

Important concepts to start the course

  • Partial Differential Equations
  • Linear algebra
  • General Physics (solid, fluid, heat)
  • Numerical analysis

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, the student must be able to:

  • Compute the kinematics and the forces in articulations, B3
  • Compute shear stresses in blood in particular flow conditions, B4
  • Compare the range of validity of different constitutive laws, B7
  • Implement a constitutive law in a simulation software, B8
  • Describe the feedback loop that, starting from a mechanical signal translated into a chemical signal, allows for the adaptation of the mechanical properties of tissues, B9
  • Compute the stresses and strains at the interface of an implant and in the surrounding tissues, B10
  • Compute the kinematics and forces in an implant, B11

Transversal skills

  • Set objectives and design an action plan to reach those objectives.
  • Identify the different roles that are involved in well-functioning teams and assume different roles, including leadership roles.
  • Continue to work through difficulties or initial failure to find optimal solutions.
  • Take feedback (critique) and respond in an appropriate manner.
  • Access and evaluate appropriate sources of information.
  • Write a scientific or technical report.
  • Make an oral presentation.

Teaching methods

The course is divided into ex cathedra sessions, with interactive examples. Exercises are organised to applied concepts presented in the course. A mini-project is carried out in groups. Examples, exercises and mini-projects are done with Comsol.

Expected student activities

  • Attend cours and do interactive exemples
  • Do the exercices
  • Do a project in a group

Assessment methods

  • Midterm test or summary report (1/4)
  • Oral presentation of project (1/4)
  • Written rapport of project (1/4)
  • Writtn exam (1/4)

Supervision

Office hours Yes
Assistants Yes
Forum Yes

Resources

Bibliography

Computational Modeling in Biomechanics, 2010

http://library.epfl.ch/ebooks/?pg=search&isbn=978-90-481-3574-5

 

Ressources en bibliothèque

Moodle Link

In the programs

  • Semester: Spring
  • Exam form: Written (summer session)
  • Subject examined: Numerical methods in biomechanics
  • Lecture: 2 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Exercises: 1 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Type: optional
  • Semester: Spring
  • Exam form: Written (summer session)
  • Subject examined: Numerical methods in biomechanics
  • Lecture: 2 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Exercises: 1 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Type: optional
  • Semester: Spring
  • Exam form: Written (summer session)
  • Subject examined: Numerical methods in biomechanics
  • Lecture: 2 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Exercises: 1 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Type: optional
  • Semester: Spring
  • Exam form: Written (summer session)
  • Subject examined: Numerical methods in biomechanics
  • Lecture: 2 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Exercises: 1 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Type: optional
  • Semester: Spring
  • Exam form: Written (summer session)
  • Subject examined: Numerical methods in biomechanics
  • Lecture: 2 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Exercises: 1 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Type: optional
  • Semester: Spring
  • Exam form: Written (summer session)
  • Subject examined: Numerical methods in biomechanics
  • Lecture: 2 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Exercises: 1 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
  • Type: optional

Reference week

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