Stiffness analysis of the sarafix external fixator of composite materials

Abstract

This paper describes a structural analysis of the CAD model three versions fixators Sarafix which to explore the possibility of introduc-ing composite materials in the construction of the connecting rod fixators comparing values of displacement and stiffness at characteristic points structure. Namely, we investigated constructional performance of fixators Sarafix with a connecting rod formed from three differ-ent composite materials, the same matrix (epoxy resin) with three different types of fibers (E glass, kevlar 49 and carbon M55J). Results of structural analysis fixators Sarafix with a connecting rod made of composite materials are compared with the results of tubular con-necting rod fixators made of stainless steel. After comparing the results, from the aspect of stiffness, we gave the final considerations about composite material which provides an adequate substitution for the existing material.