MAPFSI: Multiphysics Simulation of Magneto-Active Polymers and their Fluid-Structure Interaction
Lead Research Organisation:
Edinburgh Napier University
Department Name: School of Eng and the Built Environment
Abstract
However, simulation of such three-level multiphysics interactions at the interface between nonlinear mechanics of soft solids, electromagnetism, and fluid mechanics in intricate real-world geometries requires capabilities that are beyond the scope of the existing simulation software (commercial or open-source). To address the existing gaps in simulation software, this project aims to develop a next-generation multiphysics simulation framework that can simulate combined interactions of MAPs, magnetic fields and fluid flow in intricate geometries. Such a simulation framework will enable engineers to design innovative MAP-based devices by taking multiphysical effects into account.
Thus, the proposed project will facilitate new innovations in emerging areas such as soft robotics for healthcare, for example, in treating brain stroke, leading to reduced mortality rates, thereby bettering lives through technological advances, e.g., untethered guidewires for neurointervetion. Additionally, the advanced modelling techniques developed within this project will provide a basis for further development of virtual surgery tools to be used in the training of surgeons employing MAPs-based robots. Therefore, wider beneficiaries of the project are surgeons with innovative devices for sophisticated operations and the public with improved lives through medical treatment.
There are numerous challenges associated with developing a bespoke multiphysics simulator. Simulation of MAPs is complicated by their large deformation and large strain behaviour, the elastomer matrix's incompressible nature, time-dependent material properties, and thin geometries of devices. Additional difficulties arise in modelling the interactions of MAPs against fluid flows, particularly in intricate geometries such as neurovasculature and arteries. We will overcome these challenges by integrating our combined expertise and experience in nonlinear solid mechanics, fluid-structure interaction, modelling and simulation of MAPs, robotics, research software development and high-performance computing, supported by industrial and academic partners from the UK, Spain and the USA.
In addition to developing the sophisticated computational framework, this project will also make a significant effort through developing tutorials, documentation, and hosting workshops to engage end-users and researchers interested in MAPs to (i) help them make the best use of the simulation framework and (ii) extend it further.
Thus, the proposed project will facilitate new innovations in emerging areas such as soft robotics for healthcare, for example, in treating brain stroke, leading to reduced mortality rates, thereby bettering lives through technological advances, e.g., untethered guidewires for neurointervetion. Additionally, the advanced modelling techniques developed within this project will provide a basis for further development of virtual surgery tools to be used in the training of surgeons employing MAPs-based robots. Therefore, wider beneficiaries of the project are surgeons with innovative devices for sophisticated operations and the public with improved lives through medical treatment.
There are numerous challenges associated with developing a bespoke multiphysics simulator. Simulation of MAPs is complicated by their large deformation and large strain behaviour, the elastomer matrix's incompressible nature, time-dependent material properties, and thin geometries of devices. Additional difficulties arise in modelling the interactions of MAPs against fluid flows, particularly in intricate geometries such as neurovasculature and arteries. We will overcome these challenges by integrating our combined expertise and experience in nonlinear solid mechanics, fluid-structure interaction, modelling and simulation of MAPs, robotics, research software development and high-performance computing, supported by industrial and academic partners from the UK, Spain and the USA.
In addition to developing the sophisticated computational framework, this project will also make a significant effort through developing tutorials, documentation, and hosting workshops to engage end-users and researchers interested in MAPs to (i) help them make the best use of the simulation framework and (ii) extend it further.
