Flexible Automation and Intelligent Manufacturing, 1997:
Proceedings of the Seventh International FAIM Conference

ISBN Print: 978-1-56700-089-4

ISBN Online: 978-1-56700-442-7

TWO DIMENSIONAL STRESS ANALYSIS OF WORKING CONDITIONS ON THE PATELLA

DOI: 10.1615/FAIM1997.730
pages 769-775

Abstract

The stresses imposed on the human patella were examined using a two-dimensional finite element (FE) analysis. Two working constraints, level walking and knee bend, were applied to the models. The analysis was initiated by following previous work, which indicated that the stresses acting on the patella were approximately 180 MegaPascals (Mpa.) at knee bend, and 30 MPa. at level walking. This analysis produced similar results to those previous models, however several discrepancies were noticed to occur in those models.

A technique involving Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) was employed for gathering the geometric data of the patella. Discrepancies that arose from the various models were scrutinised and corrected until a more reliable model was produced. The results of the final set of models for the two conditions showed a reduction in the previously recorded stress levels. Results indicated that the value for a knee bend was reduced from 180 MPa. to 75 MPa., respectively and 30 MPa. to 25 MPa. for level walking.