Multi-scale semi-analytical model for fatigue life prediction of trans-tibial prosthetic sockets. (June 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mankai, Wahbi; Ben Smida, Brahim; Chafra, Moez; Ben Cheikh, Ridha
• Is Part Of: Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. Volume 235:Number 6(2021)
• Page Start: 688
• Page End: 700
• Publication Date: 2021-06
• Subjects: Trans-tibial socket -- fatigue life -- multi-scale modeling -- creep-recovery cycle -- misalignment -- Burgers Model; Biomedical engineering -- Periodicals; Medical instruments and apparatus -- Periodicals; 610.28
• DOI: 10.1177/09544119211001637
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0954-4119

Abstract

The trans-tibial socket is an essential component of the prosthesis that connects it to the residual limb. Socket misalignments and permanent deformations reduce the comfort of the amputee. In order to forestall such issues, sufficient information about the socket lifespan needs to be acquired, which is fairly difficult given the lack of calculation methods that estimate the fatigue life in the literature. In this paper a semi-analytical model is proposed based on experimental results. It highlights the effects of the amputee average daily walking time on the socket fatigue life. A proportionality relationship is demonstrated linking the Burgers model parameters at the structural scale to those at the macroscopic scale. Hence, it becomes possible to evaluate the permanent deformation that induces a misalignment in the socket. These results are useful for the designers to predict the fatigue life of the socket, and also for clinicians to monitor the mechanical degradation of the trans-tibial socket and schedule maintenance or replacement.