Data Acquisition System for Linking Tissue Mechanics with Imaging and Computational Modeling

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The National Instruments PXI data acquisition (DAQ) system requested in this application will extend the research capabilities of the Colleges of Engineering, Kinesiology and Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan (UofS) in the areas of tissue mechanics, biomechanics, and imaging. One central direction of UofS multidisciplinary musculoskeletal research is to assess bone mechanical properties with non-invasive imaging and computer models. Imaging tools include the Canadian Light Source Synchrotron (CLS), micro-computed tomography (microCT), peripheral quantitative CT (pQCT), high resolution pQCT (HR-pQCT), clinical CT and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Computer modeling tools include finite element (FE) modeling and image processing methods which link images with engineering principles. However, it is currently not known how well these imaging tools and computer models estimate bone mechanical properties. The applied PXI DAQ will enable us measure bone strain (deformation) occurring at the bone surface during experimental mechanical testing. With measures of bone strain, we are able to accurately compare image-derived and computer-derived mechanical properties with experimentally-derived properties, and thus confirm non-invasive mechanical property estimates derived available imaging and computational tools at the UofS. The key features of this equipment include: high sample rate, high channel capacity, simultaneous data acquisition, and portability for use with various imaging tools and permanent instruments located throughout the University of Saskatchewan. This device will support the training of students in a multidisciplinary area involving mechanical and biomedical engineering, kinesiology, and medicine. The PXI DAQ system will help us to: (1) reliably estimate bone mechanical properties noninvasively; and (2) build computer models that can be used to better understand bone and joint diseases.