Mechanical analysis of biological bearings

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Bearings are a part of virtually every mechanical system that is capable of motion.  They are integral to the industry that powers our industrial society and central to the health of our population.  As such, advancements in bearing technology, even incremental advancements have the potential of generating significant technological, financial and human health returns.  The targets for mechanical bearing advancement have not appreciably changed in thousands of years, and include reduced friction, longer life and reduced size.  Exceptionally high levels of performance in all of these areas can be readily found in the biological bearings of skeletal systems.   The global objectives of the proposed research program are to further the development of bearing technology through better understanding the material properties, design and function of biological bearings.   Bearing function is related to 5 fundamental parameters, i.e. material properties, bearing surface geometry, motion, loading, and lubrication / nutrition.  Optimal bearing performance can only be achieved within an envelope of appropriate operational parameters.  Healthy biological bearings function within this operational parameter envelope.   The scientific approach to be used in this research recognizes that significant insight into healthy biological bearing function should be possible through a comprehensive mechanical investigation into their operational parameters.   Using techniques and equipment developed within our laboratory we will investigate and quantify biological bearing operational parameters and develop the microscopic and macroscopic models necessary to further study their properties and function.  The research will utilize some of the most advanced testing strategies, optical scanning technology and modelling and analysis routines currently available.