Session: 06-11-01: Biotechnology and General Applications

Paper Number: 147261

147261 - Enhancing Prosthetic and Orthopedic Support Devices Through Advanced Composite Material Assembly and Design Optimization 

This work presents an innovative approach to the assembly of composite materials, specifically through the development and optimization of smooth inserts tailored for medical devices such as prostheses and orthopedic supports. This research aims to overcome the limitations of conventional assembly methods and thus advance the application of carbon fiber composites in the field of medical devices. The critical need for lightweight, strong, and adaptable materials in medical devices significantly improves patient outcomes. Conventional materials, while essential, often fail to meet evolving demands for durability, weight, and adaptability. The thesis identifies carbon fiber composites as a transformative material that offers a high strength-to-weight ratio, superior fatigue resistance, and the potential for complex customization. The contribution of this work lies in its potential to revolutionize the assembly of composites in medical devices, enabling the manufacture of prostheses and supports that are more durable, reliable, and comfortable for the user. The research introduces smooth inserts as a novel assembly technique and focuses on the geometric optimization of these inserts to improve mechanical performance and patient comfort. The methodology involves a combination of theoretical modeling, simulation, and empirical testing. In addition, this methodology employed is robust, combining theoretical foundations based on Lamé's and Hooke's laws, sophisticated simulation tools, and extensive empirical testing to validate the effectiveness of these optimized inserts. The study begins with a comprehensive overview of current composite assembly methods and identifies gaps and limitations of existing methods. A theoretical model for insert design is then developed using advanced simulation tools to investigate the mechanical interactions between inserts and composites. This theoretical basis is validated through empirical research, where prototypes are subjected to rigorous testing to evaluate their mechanical integrity and performance. The preliminary results of the study show that smooth inserts improve the mechanical performance of medical devices. Optimizing the geometric parameters of the inserts has shown a significant impact on the strength and flexibility of the devices and the overall patient experience. The study discusses these findings in the context of advancing composite assembly methods, suggesting a wider application of this technology across the medical device industry.
In summary, the study highlights the central role of advanced materials such as carbon fiber composites in redefining medical technology. By introducing smooth inserts and innovative assembly methods, the study lays the foundation for next-generation medical devices that better meet the needs of patients. This work represents a significant step towards patient-centered care and marks a new era in medical device development where engineering ingenuity and patient well-being are closely linked.
 

Presenting Author: Wafaa Mohammed Ridha Shakir Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical University

Presenting Author Biography: Dr. Radouane Akrache is an Associate Professor of Numerical Simulation and Biomedical Engineering at the University of Versailles, actively involved in research at the Laboratoire d'Ingénierie des Systèmes of Versailles (LISV), France. He earned his Master's degree in Research in Calculation and Numerical Simulation from the University of Technology of Compiegne, France, and a Ph.D. in Motion Science and Mechanical Simulation from the University of Technology of Troyes. Since September 2002, Dr. Akrache has been contributing to teaching at the University Institute of Technology (IUT) of Mantes, France, and working as a researcher at LISV. His work focuses on innovative projects at the intersection of technology and biomechanics, including Numerical Simulation, lifespan prediction of structures, Data Processing, Biomedical Engineering, and Robotics.

Authors:

Radouane Akrache Laboratoire d'Ingénierie des Systèmes de Versailles
Wafaa Mohammed Ridha Shakir Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical University
Jinan Charafeddine Léonard de Vinci Pôle Universitaire, Research Center