Numerical methods in biomechanics
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
- Courses: 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
- Courses: 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
- Courses: 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
- Courses: 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
- Courses: 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
- Courses: 2 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
- Exercises: 1 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
- Type: optional