Tissue Modeling

Tissue modeling is complex since the response is completely nonlinear and rate-dependent (stiffer if loaded quickly, softer if loaded slowly). Tissue also has a time-dependent creep response where it adapts itself to minimize applied loads. Additionally tissue variety is extreme ranging from artery walls, tendons, cartilage and organs to bones, skin and connective tissue. Since material properties for various tissue types are not always well known, this poses significant simulation challenges.

SIMULIA's Abaqus Unified FEA product suite contains specific features to help model tissue including a wide variety of nonlinear, elastic-hyperelastic models. It has been used to model feet, trabecular bone and artery wall tissue. Contact capabilities allow easy simulation of joint assembly and motion. Connectors provide a means for easily loading a soft tissue model.