University of Galway

Course Module Information

Course Modules

Semester 1 | Credits: 5

This module entails the study of advanced computational technices and analytical methods in the field of biomechanics. Students will study the following topics: Finite deformation kinematics; Isotropic hyperelasticity; Anisotropic hyperelasticity of arteries; Non-linear viscoelasticity of tendons; advanced constitutive laws for muscle and cell contractility; Metal plasticity and shape memory materials used in medical devices; Pressure dependent plasticity of bone; Non-Newtonian blood flow.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Compute deformation gradients for a range of boundary conditions
  2. Derive and compute finite deformation strain tensors
  3. Determine hyperelastic constitutive laws from strain energy density functions.
  4. Derive, implement and calibrate an anisotropic hyperelastic formulation for arterial tissue.
  5. Derive and calibrate non-linear viscoelastic constitutive laws for soft tissue.
  6. Determine the role of hydrostatic pressure in the plastic yielding of trabecular bone
  7. Derive constitutive laws for stress fibres in biological cells based on kinetics of actin-myosin bonding.
  8. Perform a non-linear finite element analysis of the interaction between a stent and an anisotropic hyper-viscoelastic artery.
  9. Perform a simulation of the non-Newtonian flow of blood in arteries
Assessments
  • Written Assessment (65%)
  • Continuous Assessment (35%)
Teachers
Reading List
  1. "Nonlinear Solid Mechanics: A Continuum Approach for Engineering." by Author: Gerhard A. Holzapfel, Publisher: Wiley. ISBN: 978-0-471-82319-3
  2. "Nonlinear Finite Elements for Continua and Structures." by Authors: Belytschko, Liu, Moran. Publisher: Wiley. ISBN-13: 978-0471987741.
  3. "Cardiovascular Solid Mechanics: Cells, Tissues, and Organs." by Author: Jay. D. Humphrey. Publisher: Springer.
The above information outlines module BME5100: "Advanced Computational Biomechanics" and is valid from 2023 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.