Influence of Fused Deposition Modeling Process Parameters on Constitutive Model of Hyperelastic Thermoplastic Polyurethane.

Thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) are suited for fused deposition modeling (FDM) of parts that require high levels of flexibility and strength. Predicting the deformation of TPU parts produced using FDM may be difficult, especially under large deformations, as their constitutive models depend on the printing process parameters. The lack of understanding led to the absence of constitutive models for TPU parts produced using FDM.

Predicting the Bending of 3D Printed Hyperelastic Polymer Components.

The advancement of 3D printing has led to its widespread use. NinjaFlex, a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) filament, is a highly durable and flexible material that has been used to create flexible parts. While this material has been available for nearly two decades, the mechanical properties of 3D printed NinjaFlex parts are not well-understood, especially in bending.

Functional and dynamic response characteristics of a custom composite ankle foot orthosis for Charcot-Marie-Tooth patients.

Background: Custom carbon-fiber composite ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) have been anecdotally reported to improve gait of Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) patients. The purpose of the study was to characterize the spatio-temporal, joint kinetic and mechanical responses of a custom carbon fiber AFO during locomotion for persons diagnosed with CMT.

Methods: Eight volunteers were fitted with custom AFOs.

Bone strength is maintained after 8 months of inactivity in hibernating golden-mantled ground squirrels, Spermophilus lateralis.

Prolonged inactivity leads to disuse atrophy, a loss of muscle and bone mass. Hibernating mammals are inactive for 6-9 months per year but must return to full activity immediately after completing hibernation. This necessity for immediate recovery presents an intriguing conundrum, as many mammals require two to three times the period of inactivity to recover full bone strength.