Development of an integrated CAD-FEA process for below-knee prosthetic sockets

Abstract

Background. Computer-aided design and manufacturing has been successfully used in prosthetic applications since 1980s. It simplifies the socket rectification process and improves reproducibility but does not introduce any new principle into socket design. Integrating finite element analysis to CAD will provide a more objective assessment of socket fit and improve the chance of a successful first fitting. Methods. Current study aims to establish a finite element model generation technique directly from geometrical information of commercial prosthetic CAD workstation. A program developed in-house automatically performs meshing of the stump geometry and assigns suitable material properties, loa..