Structural modelling and finite element analysis of medical components and instruments

• Grant number: 20/15735-0
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: March 01, 2022
• End date: February 29, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Mechanics of Solids
• Principal Investigator: Edson Antonio Capello Sousa
• Grantee: Edson Antonio Capello Sousa
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Engenharia (FE). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Bauru. Bauru , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Aron Jose Pazin de Andrade ; Bruno Agostinho Hernandez ; Cesar Renato Foschini ; José Henrique Rubo ; Sheila Canevese Rahal

Abstract

The Finite Element (FE) method has been frequently applied in the field of orthopedic and biomechanics, as it allows non-linear analyses of complex structures, the use of non-linear materials, three-dimensional loading and coupled behaviors. However, the development of biomechanical models is still a difficult task, as it is a time-consuming process, with non-linear interactions, non-symmetrical geometries, and variable mechanical properties, depending on the type of loading, nature of the sample etc. Therefore, the continuous development of new models and modelling techniques contributes to increase the accuracy of these models and their responses, as new ways of incorporating complexities or representing a specific loading scenario are created and validated. Accurate results lead to accurate analyses, which can help in the development of new devices and in the improvement of the current ones. Aiming to improve the research capabilities of the Centre for Simulation in Bioengineering, Biomechanics and Biomaterials (CS3B) at UNESP, which conducts research with several partners, this project aims research support to update computers and software, thus allowing the continuation of current partnerships and creation of new ones. The aim of CS3B is to develop finite element models of medical-mechanical components used to support life, as well as to study and improve modelling practices and techniques. Based on this aim, this group's research is divided into three topics. The first, in partnership with USP/Bauru, aims to study the biomechanical behaviour of dental prostheses and their structural optimization. The second topic, in partnership with UNESP/Botucatu, aims to develop medical components for the treatment of wild and domestic animals. The third, in partnership with the Adib Jatene Foundation (FAJ), from Instituto Dante Pazzanese de Cardiologia (IDPC), aims the development and structural analysis of a new 3D printed video laryngoscope, to improve the protection of doctors facing Covid -19, and a new bioabsorbable cardiac stent for coarctation of the aorta treatment. As a result of this project, it is expected that the update of computers and software will provide a better and faster processing and simulation capacity, as well as the improvement of modelling and model development techniques. It is also expected to strengthen partnerships, both long-standing, such as with USP, as well as recent ones, with UNESP/Botucatu and IDPC. Finally, it is expected to develop better ways to build models, a better understanding of the behaviour of biomechanical structures and to assist the public health system and the fight against Covid-19. (AU)

Scientific publications

(References retrieved automatically from Web of Science and SciELO through information on FAPESP grants and their corresponding numbers as mentioned in the publications by the authors)

DOS SANTOS, FLAVIO JOSE; HERNANDEZ, BRUNO AGOSTINHO; SANTOS, ROSANA; MACHADO, MARCEL; SOUZA, MATEUS; CAPELLO SOUSA, EDSON A.; ANDRADE, ARON. Bioabsorbable Polymeric Stent for the Treatment of Coarctation of the Aorta (CoA) in Children: A Methodology to Evaluate the Design and Mechanical Properties of PLA Polymer. MATERIALS, v. 16, n. 12, p. 13-pg., 2023-06-01. (20/15735-0)