Finite element analysis of human femur bone

Abstract

An effort is made to analyse the stresses experienced by the human femur. In order to achieve these results a CAD model was developed by using the 3-D scanning of generic human femur for an individual of 70 kg weight (approx. averaged adult weight). The marrow cavity has been approximated as a hollow cylinder. The FEM model was built using solid tetrahedral element (20-noded 186 structural solid, ANSYS®). The model was analysed for its sensitivity. The results were computed for the range of loads. In this analysis, the maximum stress and its location were noted. In addition, the critical value of load was estimated for ultimate failure (i.e. fracture). The evaluated results give an understanding of the natural safety factor. The presented results are of significant importance in replication of the natural design parameters in creating the synthetic bone substitutes.