Deformation and Strain Analysis in Calcaneus Plate Using Digital Image Correlation Method

Analysis of strain distribution is a key topic in mechanical engineering. The two traditional techniques for measuring strain are making grids on test samples and using a strain gauge. Both of these methods require a lot of time and work. Digital image correlation (DIC), which is based on cutting-edge camera and computer technologies, is now an essential tool for measuring strain fields for a variety of test specimen scales. The fundamental idea behind DIC is to capture the entire process as images and then process those images so that they can be compared with deformed image sequences. This comparison can be used to determine the displacement and strain distribution down to the sub-pixel level. Several studies have highlighted the DIC method in solving bio-mechanic cases. However, limited knowledge is available regarding the deformation and strain distribution of bone plate implants. The goal of this study is to use the digital image correlation method to measure calcaneal bone plate deformation and strain during compression loading. A three-point bending test was performed on a calcaneal plate of 3.5 mm and screws that were fixed on the Sander’s IIB fractured platform. The method of DIC measurement was discovered to determine the location and magnitude of strains at the bone-screw interface as well as the magnitude and location of plate stress.