This paper presents a modelling of a human knee joint in lateral impact for use in an explicit finite element code. The articulation between each condyle of the femur and the corresponding tuberosity of the tibia is mainly described. The bones entering into the formation of the knee joint are the condyles of the femur above, the head of the tibia below. The bones are connected together by ligaments, some of which are placed on the exterior of the joint, while others occupy its interior. This model will be impacted both to estimate the severity of knee joint lesions, and predict the risk of knee injuries in car/pedestrian accidents. The effect of the impactor stiffness, velocity, and height will be evaluated. Experimental results from static tests and impact tests, to characterise the mechanical behviour of each part, like the ligaments or the bones, and the whole kinematics of the knee, serve as a basis for the validation of the model.
Abstract