Details of Grant 

EPSRC Reference:	GR/S17949/01
Title:	Development of a constitutive model for the peridontal ligament using a novel motion analysis technique
Principal Investigator:	Evans, Professor S
Other Investigators:	Holt, Professor C
Researcher Co-Investigators:	Professor DP Aeschlimann Dr J Knox Professor J Middleton
Project Partners:	Qualisys
Department:	Sch of Engineering
Organisation:	Cardiff University
Scheme:	Standard Research (Pre-FEC)
Starts:	01 September 2003	Ends:	31 August 2006	Value (£):	158,132
EPSRC Research Topic Classifications:	Musculoskeletal system
EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications:	Healthcare Technical Consultancy
Related Grants:	GR/S17932/01
Panel History:
Summary on Grant Application Form
It has long been know that the PDL is a complex tissue structure which exhibits non-linear behaviour and furthermore that many of the simplified models(homogeneouslisotropic) proposed for this structure have failed to accurately predict mechanical response. Mere it is proposed to develop a model based on a coupled solid and fluid phase together with homogenisation techniques which consider the size and distribution of the collagen fibrils within the PDL. This model will be developed in parallel with an in vivo experimental programme using human volunteers. Mere a novel motion analysis system using digitised camera images and external marker clusters will be used to measure the translation and rotation of a tooth subject to various loading scenarios. The in vivo measurements obtained (time dependent load/displacement tooth movement) will then be used to provide input for the development of a constitiutive model were the material parameters can be identified through the matching of experiment data with the proposed computational model. This technique provides the means of validating the modelling concept proposed(using methods employed in other areas by the proposers). It will also provide a set of parameters that will allow the non-linear response of the human PDL to be accurately modelled. The methodology proposed provides a quantitative tool in gaining a better understanding of tooth mobility and could be employed to assess new medical/dental devices and treatment plans. Also since the technique is formulated within a experimenteUfinite element framework it is also applicable to a wide range of other biomechanical applications such as tendons, ligaments and skin.
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