Individual Modeling Method of a Bone Based on the X-ray CT Data

Reliable stress analysis of a bone requires the precise finite-element model. This study deals with an automated method of an individual finite-element model of a bone based on the X-ray CT data. The method consists of two processes. The first process produces an approximate finite-element model of a bony shape with small tetrahedral elements. For the modeling, various types of tetrahedral elements with almost same volume were provided. The second process transforms the approximate model so that the model is fitted to the outer shape. We applied the method to a human lumber vertebra and a human mandible. The proposed method successfully generated the exact finite-element models of the bones.