Biomechanics of Tissues

3 credits · Undergraduate Programs

The structure and functional behaviour of complex tissues which make up the human musculoskeletal system (bone, cartilage, muscles, tendons, ligaments) and cardiovascular systems (heart, blood vessels) will be explained by applying basic principles of continuum mechanics. Introductory topics include: review of linear and tensor algebra, kinematics of continua, deformation gradient, deformation and strain tensors, balance equations and Cauchy stress tensor, stress power and measures of stress. Constitutive equations introduced as they apply to the study of biological tissues; anisotropy and inhomogeneity, fibre-reinforced behaviour. Laboratory experiences complement and reinforce the theory. Prerequisite(s): One of Biomedical Engineering 383, Mechanical Engineering 317, Civil Engineering 317; and fourth-year standing or above. Antirequisite(s): Credit for Biomedical Engineering 525 and 405 will not be allowed.