SEDL / STP / STP1250-EB / STP13983S

Design of a Composite Hip Prosthesis for Long-Term Performance

Liao, K
Research associate and Alexander Giacco professor, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA

Reifsnider, KL
Research associate and Alexander Giacco professor, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA

Pages: 21    Published: Jan 1994

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Abstract

In this paper, a performance simulation model is described for the design and simulation of the long-term behavior of a composite hip prosthesis (an engineering device for implant in the human body), that is subjected to repeated mechanical and environmental loads during service. The life prediction method for the composite hip prothesis is developed from a critical element concept, a cumulative, mechanistic approach for predicting the residual strength and life of composite material systems subjected to cyclic loads. Results from the experimental characterization of prototype specimens are also presented, and how that information can be used for the life-prediction scheme is discussed.