Research Projects

Biomechanical modeling of the Human Cornea

The biomechanics of human cornea is critical in defining its optical behavior and thus, visual performance.  Variations in biomechanical behavior may be caused by disease, surgical corrections or individualized material properties or geometry.  We have developed finite element models to explore these variations and their role in creating changes in surface topography and optical aberrations.  

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Characterizing Growth of the Knee Joint

We have evaluated custom MR imaging coils that allow us to characterize the growth of the knee joint in small experimental animals. Comparisons to mechanical testing will help us use these images for development of computational models of the knee joint to study the effect of biomechanics on growth.

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Finite Element Models of the Knee Meniscus

In the knee, the menisci play an important role in distribution of forces onto the articular cartilage. However, their complex structure, numerous attachments and nonlinear material properties present significant challenges for biomechanical modeling. Our group has developed one of the most complete finite element models of these structures, and we have used a combination of MR imaging and joint loading to validate our model and study its sensitivity to the many input parameters.

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Knee Flexion Mechanics

We are interested in understanding the biomechanics of the knee in deep flexion. Magnetic resonance (MR) images are used to identify bone segments, and a motion tracking algorithm developed by VirtualScopics, LLC is used to quantify joint motion between sequential MR scans.

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Modeling Vision Correction with LIRIC writing modalities

Laser Induced Refractive Index Change (LIRIC) is a technology designed to correct vision by modification of the cornea.  Clerio Vision, Inc. is a spinout from the University of Rochester that was formed to commercialize this technology and is supporting this project, with matching support from the CEIS.  In this study, we are investigating the potential biomechanical implications of this technique on the cornea, and thus on the achieved vision correction.

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MR Imaging of Musculoskeletal Joints and Bone Properties

Our computational models rely on the use of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging techniques, with special sequences and surface coils developed by our collaborators at the Rochester Center for Brain Imaging. With these techniques, we can capture not only the definition of the boundaries between tissues, but also information about the bone structure underlying the cartilage surfaces.

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Understanding the Risks for Knee Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis and knee pain are common disabilities that interfere with daily activities and exercise in millions of people, however understanding the specific risks for each individual remains challenging. We know that post-menopausal women, people who are overweight, and those who have experienced a knee injury are at greater risk, but there are many interactions between the biological and mechanical factors involved in these risks.

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