The mesh-matching algorithm: an automatic 3D mesh generator for Finite element structures

Abstract

Several authors have employed Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for stress and strain analysis in orthopaedic biomechanics. Unfortunately, the use of three-dimensional models is time consuming and consequently the number of analysis to be performed is limited. The authors have investigated a new method allowing automatically 3D mesh generation for structures as complex as bone for example. This method called Mesh-Matching (M-M) algorithm generated automatically customized 3D meshes of bones from an already existing model. The M-M algorithm has been used to generate FE models of ten proximal human femora from an initial one which had been experimentally validated. The new meshes seemed to demonstrate satisfying results.