Office of Undergraduate Research

Real-Time Image Processing Assisted Finite Element Analysis Of Vascular Implants

Self-expanding nitinol stents are used to treat peripheral artery disease. The stented arteries are subjected to a combination of mechanical forces, such as compression, torsion, bending, and contraction. Stent fracture rates observed in clinical trials vary from 0% to 90% and depend on many factors, including stent design. The objective of this study is to accurately predict location and distribution of local stresses and strains caused by large arterial deformations. Real-time image analysis of stent deformation will be coupled with the high-performance computing finite element models. Mechanical simulation assisted implantation procedures will also be studied.

Tasks and responsibilities:

Student will conduct a series of mechanical testing experiments with various vascular stents. He will capture stent deformations using designed high-speed camera system. He will assist graduate students in developing an interface between the image processing unit and finite element solvers. Based on the results of these experiments, the student will prepare a poster presentation and write a journal article. He will also contribute to writing NSF and other proposals