1D Finite element model using rod element applied to muscle behavior simulation

Abstract

[EN]The objective of this study is to implement a new simplified model of a muscle, based on a 1D element, rod type, used in most common analysis, instead of a 3D mesh of the muscle geometry. The main advantages of this new method for modeling muscles is that several position of a joint, where the muscle is involved, could be analyzed without any added effort to the original meshing of the model. We only need to locate the bones involved in the joint in their new position, and so the muscles will move to their right position. 3D models allow us to study in a more detailed manner the muscle stress maps, deformations, but the main issue we must work on is the need of re-meshing the 3D geometry any time the joint changes in position. With this simplified method, only its insertion points, the section and the length, define the muscle, in the FEA. And none of the changes when the joint changes in position.