عارف صدري قهفرخي

This research aimed to investigate the mechanical performance of a metal-fiber composite foot prosthesis and compare it with a commercially available prosthesis. The primary objective was to eva‎luate the mechanical behavior of the prosthesis and analyze the effect of metal layers on its performance. The study explored the influence of varying the fiber-to-metal ratio on strain energy, strength, energy absorption and release during the gait cycle, and potential design modifications to enhance prosthesis function. The research methodology involved finite element analysis using Abaqus software. The findings demonstrated that the metal-fiber composite prosthesis exhibits an adequate safety margin against stresses and can withstand the loads associated with the walking cycle. Stress analysis (S11, S22, S33) revealed a favorable stress distribution. Aluminum was selected as the metal component based on its mechanical properties and manufacturing considerations. The results indicated that incorporating aluminum up to an optimal thickness increases strain energy, contributing to improved kinetic performance and reduced user fatigue. However, exceeding the optimal aluminum thickness leads to a decrease in strain energy and an increase in weight. Comparison with a common commercial prosthesis showed that aluminum layers with an optimal thickness enhance stress distribution and energy return. Additionally, the metal-fiber composite prosthesis demonstrated the capability to absorb and release energy during the gait cycle, with the amount influenced by aluminum thickness, loading angle, and walking conditions. In conclusion, utilizing metal-fiber composites and optimizing aluminum thickness presents an effective approach to enhance the performance of foot prostheses.

پروتز پنجه پا , كامپوزيت‌هاي فلز - الياف , تحليل اجزاي محدود , بازگشت انرژي , انرژي كرنشي

Foot prosthesis , Metal-fiber composites , Finite element analysis (FEA) , Energy return , Strain energy

Aref sadri ghahfarokhi

Dr. Siavash Kazemirad