Topology Optimization of the Hip Bone for Walking Using Multi-Load Approach

Abstract

In this work, we use structural topology optimization to design the hip bone with multi-load conditions of walking gait cycle. Previous research works on optimal bone design primarily aimed to design the micro-structure of the femur bone using a multi-load approach with global geometry fixed. To the best of authors’ knowledge, no optimal design research literature is available on the hip bone. This work uses the concept of multiload conditions, since it considers the effect of entire gait cycle while applying loading conditions. We consider three cases for the weights. Those are (i) equi-weight case, (ii) non-equi weight case based on the fraction of the phase in the gait cycle and (iii) non-equi weight case based on the ratio of magnitude of the hip joint force in respective phases to the total hip joint force of the entire walking gait cycle. The optimal designs are compared with natural hip bone by measuring shape similarity using Procrustes Analysis. Results show that the compliance is less for the optimal designs compared with natural hip bone. The shape similarity values for the three cases are found to be 64%, 78% and 73% respectively. Optimal design obtained from the non-equi weight case based on the duration of phase has highest shape similarity value due to creation of a hole similar to obturator foramen in lower portion of the hip bone. The maximum stress and maximum displacement values are lower in optimal designs compared with natural hip bone. From the shape similarity results, the optimal design from the non-equi weight based on duration of the phase may be more suitable for prosthesis applications.