Development Of A Nonlinear Finite ElementModel For Analysis Of Stump/socket InterfaceStresses In Below-knee Amputee

An nonlinear finite element model was established to predict the stresses distribution at the stump/socket interface in below-knee amputees. The limb tissues and socket liner, based on a measured amputee's geometry, were respectively meshed into 972 and 486 3D 8-node isoparametric brick elements. Bone and the socket shell were assumed to have rigid boundaries. An important feature of this model is the use of 486 interface elements (ABAQUS INTER4) which mimic the interface friction condition. The model was run on a Convex C3840 supercomputer using the ABAQUS finite element package and the FEMVIEW post-processing package. The model can be used to predict normal and shear stresses at the interface with loading; and to analyse the effect of socket rectification and tissue properties, as well as the interface slip situation with loading.