Orthopedics Simulation

The Orthopedics industry has a successful track record in developing artificial joints to replace damaged or non-functional human ones. Hip, knee, shoulder, elbow and even finger joint replacement is now commonplace. The challenges of designing and deploying these devices in an economical manner, however, are significant. First, joint materials are complex and include stainless steel, titanium, cobalt-chrome and Ultra High Molecular Weight PolyEthylene (UHMWPE). These materials are used due to their biocompatibility, manufacturability and wear characteristics. The resulting artificial joints have complex ranges of motion to mimic the flexibility, strength and durability of natural joints. Their simulation is also challenging as it includes complex contact, friction and wear characteristics, as well as very large ranges of motion and kinematic limits to reflect natural joint characteristics. Wear modeling is of particular concern in this industry as well.

The Abaqus Unified FEA suite of products from SIMULIA provide our Life Sciences customer base with a complete platform for simulating joint assembly, mechanics (including durability and wear) and failure modes. These simulations provide the industry with the information they need to improve their designs and to help secure regulatory approval. Some manufacturers are also developing simulation-assisted procedures in which computer simulation (including Abaqus FEA) is used in real-time to aid surgeons in joint replacement training and procedures.