Reliability in Biomechanics [Hardcover]

In this book, the authors present in detail several recent methodologies and algorithms that we have developed during the last fifteen years. The deterministic methods account for uncertainties through empirical safety factors,  which implies that the actual uncertainties in materials, geometry and loading are not truly considered. This problem becomes much more complicated when considering biomechanical applications where a number of uncertainties are encountered in the design of prosthesis systems. This book implements improved numerical strategies and algorithms that can be applied only in biomechanical studies.

Preface ix

Introduction  xi

Chapter 1. Basic Tools for Reliability Analysis 1

1.1. Introduction  1

1.2. Advantages of numerical simulation and optimization 2

1.3. Numerical simulation by finite elements 3

1.3.1. Use 3

1.3.2. Principle  4

1.3.3. General approach  5

1.4. Optimization process 6

1.4.1. Basic concepts  7

1.4.2. Problem classification  10

1.4.3. Optimization methods  22

1.4.4. Unconstrained methods 23

1.4.5. Constrained methods  43

1.5. Sensitivity analysis  56

1.5.1. Importance of sensitivity  56

1.5.2. Sensitivity methods 57

1.6. Conclusion 61

Chapter 2. Reliability Concept 63

2.1. Introduction  63

2.1.1. Preamble 63

2.1.2. Reliability history  63

2.1.3. Reliability definition  65

2.1.4. Importance of reliabl#&