In this research, a numerical method was developed to predict the progressive failure of thick laminated composite femoral components. A 3-D global/3-D local technique was developed to capture the overall structural response of this system while also enabling the 3-D ply-level stress state to be determined efficiently and accurately. Different failure criteria and material degradation models were incorporated in the method, giving it the flexibility to model a wide range of materials and structures. Numerical modeling was also conducted to design experimental test methods to simulate in vivo loading conditions for component fatigue tests. Parametric studies were then conducted with the numerical model of the experimental system and the results were compared to the experimentally determined laminated composite femoral component damage behavior to assess which parameter set most accurately predicted the actual damage development behavior. The best fitting parameter set was then applied to analyze simulated in situ composite femoral components. Results showed that this methodology efficiently and accurately predicted damage initiation and propagation. This research demonstrates how analytical and numerical models may be used as initial tools for component evaluation prior to conducting extensive experimental programs and for designing composite hip implants that possess improved damage resistance.
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