An investigation of the Fluid-Structure Interaction in articular cartilage across disparate scales

该项目将汇集多个组件，以有效地描述跨不同尺度的软骨的流体-结构相互作用。一个关键的路径耦合模拟在不同的规模，实验验证和临床相关性将被确定和特定的重点放在建模方面，必要时。期望的结果是：-浸没纤维网络的3D显微模型，其准确地描述了软骨的行为。通过探索简单的虎克弹簧，半柔性聚合物和生物聚合物的粘弹性固体结构的选择; -从宏观尺度多孔弹性连续方程中的必要项可以忠实地描述的微观模型的参数制度。确定所需的尺度的分离，并调查一系列的机制，以促进耦合; -验证模型预测的实验载荷下的软骨样品。将多孔弹性材料压缩试验的现行实验室方案扩展至软骨。在代表自然关节的操作条件下测量载荷与位移; -临床医生对其指导下开发的技术的吸收，增强用于治疗关节健康的当前技术; -可以修改的框架，以研究与通过可变形多孔材料的流体流动相关的其他感兴趣的系统。

This project will bring together multiple components to effectively describe the Fluid-Structure Interaction of cartilage across disparate scales. A critical path toward the coupling of simulations at different scales, experimental validation, and clinical relevance will be ascertained and specific focus placed on modelling aspects where necessary. The desired outcomes are: - A 3D microscopic model of immersed fibrous networks which accurately describes the behaviour of cartilage. Selection of the comprising viscoelastic solid structure by exploring simple Hookean springs, semi-flexible polymers, and biopolymers; - Delineated parameter regimes of microscale models from which the necessary terms in the continuum equations of macroscale poroelasticity can be faithfully described. Determine the separation of scales required and investigate a range of mechanisms to facilitate coupling; - Validation of model predictions by experimentation of cartilage samples under load. Extend current laboratory protocol for compression testing of poroelastic materials to cartilage. Perform measurements of load versus displacement for operating conditions representative of natural joints; - Uptake by clinicians of the techniques developed under their guidance, enhance the current technology used for the treatment of joint health; - A framework that can be modified to investigate other systems of interest related to fluid flow through deformable porous materials.