Generation of numerical human models based on medical imaging

Report, 2012

The aim of this project was to increase the knowledge of how numerical models can be generated based on medical imaging data. The software used was Scan IP+FE/+CAD (Simpleware Ltd, UK). Three studies were conducted to generate models for Computer Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element (FE) analysis, focusing on the medical imaging process. The real geometry of an aorta with a stent graft was generated based on Computer Tomography (CT) images from two patients. Several meshes were generated, evaluated and exported to OpenFOAM for CFD analysis. It was possible to run the simulation. Two FE models of the cervical vertebrae were generated based on CT images of female necks. The mesh density needed to capture joint slope and other important features were investigated. Lastly, image processing of rat and monkey head, brain and neck was performed to extract anatomical details and compare brain size with specimen mass. This project was finalized with a workshop to spread the gained knowledge to the graduate students and researchers at the Department of Applied Mechanics of Chalmers, active in the field of human body modeling, and open to participants from partners of the SAFER - Vehicle and Traffic Safety Center- at Chalmers and the Strategic Area of Transport at Chalmers.