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

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

Resources

Bibliography

Computational Modeling in Biomechanics, 2010

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

Ressources en bibliothèque

• Computational Modeling in Biomechanics / Suvranu

Moodle Link

• https://go.epfl.ch/ME-484