Numerical Approach to Predict the Lifespan of a Prosthesis

Abstract

This study consists of modeling and simulating the behavior of a prosthetic leg adapted to running using the finite element method, therefore the work is divided into three phases. In the first stage, the study is focused on the modeling of prostheses and their contact with the ground, followed by a phase of simulation of its behavior. The final phase of this work is oriented to the study of the influencing factors on the overall behavior of the prosthesis: number of folds, mechanical properties and an estimate of the service life. The evaluation is determined on the uncertainty of the stresses due to modeling errors, and the dispersion of the data obtained from the fatigue tests [1]. The results indicate that the accuracy of the prosthesis fatigue assessment is strongly related to the accuracy of the stress estimation. Additionally, a relationship between the probability of fatigue failure and the number of stroke cycles has been suggested, in order to provide a benchmark for prosthetics to determine the time interval for prosthesis inspection.