A performance study of tetrahedral and hexahedral elements in 3-D finite element structural analysis
Finite Elements in Analysis and Design
Elliptic grid generation based on Laplace equations and algebraic transformations
Journal of Computational Physics
Computer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine
Computer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine
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Finite element (FE) analysis is a useful tool to study spine biomechanics as a complement to laboratory-driven experimental studies. Although individualized models have the potential to yield clinically relevant results, the demands associated with modeling the geometric complexity of the spine often limit its utility. Existing spine FE models share similar characteristics and are often based on similar assumptions, but vary in geometric fidelity due to the mesh generation techniques that were used. Using existing multiblock techniques, we propose mesh generation methods that ease the effort and reduce the time required to create subject-specific allhexahedral finite element models of the spine. We have demonstrated the meshing techniques by creating a C4-C5 functional spinal unit and validated it by comparing the resultant motions and vertebral strains with data reported in the literature.