Validating a voxel-based finite element model of a human mandible using digital speckle pattern interferometry.

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Orthopedics
• Materials Science

Background:

• Finite element analysis (FEA) is crucial for predicting biological structure mechanical behavior.
• FEA model validation requires experimental data, often obtained with strain gauges.
• Strain gauges provide limited surface strain data and are difficult to apply to bone.

Purpose of the Study:

• To apply digital speckle pattern interferometry (DSPI) for full-field strain measurement on a loaded human mandible.
• To compare DSPI experimental strain data with predictions from voxel-based finite element models.
• To validate the accuracy of FEA models in bone mechanics using a novel strain measurement technique.

Main Methods:

• Utilized digital speckle pattern interferometry (DSPI) for full-field strain measurement on a human mandible specimen.
• Developed voxel-based finite element models of the same human mandible specimen.
• Loaded the mandible specimen and recorded strain data using both DSPI and FEA.

Main Results:

• DSPI provided consistent and reliable full-field strain measurements.
• FEA predictions showed strong correlation with experimental strain data obtained via DSPI.
• The study demonstrated accurate prediction of experimental results by the FEA approach.

Conclusions:

• DSPI is a valuable and reliable technique for validating bone mechanics models.
• The employed FEA approach accurately predicts experimental strain distributions in loaded bone.
• This study supports the use of DSPI for future validation studies in bone mechanics.