The project is led by our PhD Candidate Melody Labrune. Through in-silico research, she is creating computational models, a musculoskeletal model using OpenSim and a Finite Element Model. Both models are focused on the shoulder joint and mirror our advanced in-vitro shoulder simulator. International collaborations ensure a multidisciplinary approach for this project, enriching the model with cutting-edge insights.

The models are validated using the data obtained from the advanced in-vitro shoulder simulator.

Computational modelling

  • This model is developed using OpenSim and in collaboration with the Movement Biomechanics Lab at the ETH Zurich in Switzerland. Some key features are:

    • Eight muscles including rotator cuff and deltoid muscle

    • Six degrees of freedom of the glenohumeral joint

    • Prediction of muscles and joint reaction forces using COMAK (Concurrent Optimization of Muscle Activations and Kinematics) algorithm

  • The development of this model is enhanced through international collaborations. Key elements are:

    • Heterogenous bone material properties

    • Customised loading and boundary conditions

    • The strain output of the simulations are validated using the collected data from our shoulder simulator testings

Vision

This project envisions an expansion of our computational model to encompass the intricate dynamics associated with arthroplasty and soft tissue injuries, thereby extending its applicability and impact in the field of shoulder biomechanics.
It also envisions for these computational models to be applied for validating the development of new orthopedic implants and surgical techniques.