Analysis of +Gz acceleration induced stresses in the human ventricle myocardium
Date
2018-07-12
Authors
Moore, James Ernest
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Abstract
It is well known that physiological problems occur when pilots are subjected to moderate-to-high +Gz accelerations. The goal of this research is to
develop a quantitative model that provides additional insight into the adverse
effects of +Gz accelerations on a pilot’s cardiovascular system. The method of
investigation is in contrast to previous studies, which have mainly relied on
experimental techniques.
This work focuses on the development of a three-dimensional finite element
model to analyse +Gz induced stresses in the human left and right ventricles.
The computational model is based on non-linear continuum theory, where the
effects of finite deformation, irregular shape of the heart, and (nearly) incompressible
behaviour of myocardium tissue are taken into account. The finite
element formulation is developed using the Galerkin weighted residual method
with a penalty treatment of the incompressibility condition. In this study, an
exponential type strain energy function is used to model the cardiac tissue.
This technique provides a new perspective for the mechanical study of +Gz
acceleration on the human heart. Results presented demonstrate the ability of
the finite element model to provide quantitative data on the effects of gravitational loading on the cardiovascular system. The analysis predicts gross
distortion and stress data for the human heart under sustained exposure to
inertia loading up to +5 Gz.
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Keywords
Myocardium, Acceleration (Physiology)