Life prediction model for fatigue loaded composite femoral prosthesis

In order to anticipate the long-term behavior of a composite femoral prosthesis under complex loading conditions (mechanical and environmental), so as to improve the design and performance of such a device, a life prediction model is necessary. Since it is almost impossible to produce a complete phenomenological database of stress and life associated with such factors as complex loading conditions, required testing time, as well as cost, such a model should represent the property evolution in a composite femoral prosthesis, mechanistically and physically, and be able to predict its behavior under cyclic loading. In this paper, a life prediction model for a composite femoral prosthesis is presented. The model is developed based on a static stress analysis model, using a strength of materials approach, and a dynamic cumulative damage model, known as the critical element model.