Addition of extra vertebra and disc in a spine finite element model

[Lucy A]

Hi,

I have a research work on doing some biomechanical analysis on a spine finite element model. This spine model is from T1-S1 (first thoracic vertebra to Sacrum). But according to some data that I am provided with, I need to add an extra intervertebral disc and vertebra between two vertebrae. How can a vertebra and an intervertebral disc be added in this already modeled spine? Any kind of ideas would be really helpful. Please let me know if my question is not clear.

Thanks.

 

[FEA way]

Which software do you use ? The way to add new part depends on the program specific features.

 

[Lucy A]

Hi FEA way,

I use Abaqus.

 

[FEA way]

That’s great because I work in Abaqus too.

The model is completed bur did you run the analysis already ? If yes and you don’t want to run it again (because it may take some time) then submodeling is an option to consider. But if the job was not submitted yet or the analysis takes a short time to complete then just use the tools available in the Assembly module to add new instances between those already positioned. You will have to move existing instances and redefine some interactions (contacts probably) but it shouldn’t take too much time.

 

[Lucy A]

Thank you so much FEA way. I have not done any analysis so far because I need to add an extra vertebra and disc between two vertebrae in the model and then do the remaining part. The spine model that I have is one whole part so I am not sure if there is a way to add only a vertebra and disc to the spine model. Do you have any idea on how can this can be done in the assembly module?

 

[FEA way]

I thought that your spine model is made of separate instances representing vertebrae and discs connected with each other using some interactions (couplings, connectors, contact and so on). But if it's a single part imported from CAD software then you will have to modify the model outside Abaqus in order to add something between existing vertebrae.

 

[Lucy A]

Thank you very much FEA way for your quick responses. I figured out a way to do it in Abaqus/CAE. I hope the model works. Thanks again.