Citation

Jani D, Chawala A, Mukherjee S. Proc. IRCOBI 2009; 37: 327-356.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, International Research Council on Biomechanics of Injury)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This study reports a methodology to generate anatomically correct postures of existing human body finite element models while maintaining their mesh quality. The developed method is based on computer graphics techniques and permits control over the kinematics followed by the bones. Initial mesh quality of the model being repositioned is quantified and maintained during the process in order to preserve the suitability of the model for subsequent use. For some critical areas (areas in the vicinity of the joint) where element distortion is large, a mesh smoothing technique is used to improve the mesh quality. The applicability of the tool developed is demonstrated on the lower extremity (knee joint) of a human body FE model. The tool repositions a given model from hyper extension to 90 degree flexion in just a few seconds and does not require subjective interventions. As the mesh quality of the repositioned model is maintained to a predefined level (typically to the level of model in initial configuration) the model is suitable for subsequent simulations and remeshing is not needed.