The non-linear response of a muscle in transverse compression: assessment of geometry influence using a finite element model

Abstract

Most recent finite element models that represent muscles are generic or subject-specific models that use complex, constitutive laws. Identification of the parameters of such complex, constitutive laws could be an important limit for subject-specific approaches. The aim of this study was to assess the possibility of modelling muscle behaviour in compression with a parametric model and a simple, constitutive law. A quasi-static compression test was performed on the muscles of dogs. A parametric finite element model was designed using a linear, elastic, constitutive law. A multi-variate analysis was performed to assess the effects of geometry on muscle response. An inverse method was used to define Young's modulus. The non-linear response of the muscles was obtained using a subject-specific geometry and a linear elastic law. Thus, a simple muscle model can be used to have a bio-faithful, biomechanical response.

Keywords:

• muscle
• biomechanics
• geometry
• finite element modelling
• quasi-static compression
• identification

Acknowledgements

We acknowledge Joachim Magnier for his help during the mechanical tests, Baptiste Sandoz for the geometry acquisitions with HandyScan and the Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort for providing the muscles.