Open AccessFinite element analysis in functional morphology
Author(s) -
Richmond Brian G.,
Wright Barth W.,
Grosse Ian,
Dechow Paul C.,
Ross Callum F.,
Spencer Mark A.,
Strait David S.
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
the anatomical record part a: discoveries in molecular, cellular, and evolutionary biology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1552-4892
pISSN - 1552-4884
DOI - 10.1002/ar.a.20169
Subject(s) - morphology (biology) , finite element method , computer science , mathematics , biological system , biology , structural engineering , engineering , zoology
This article reviews the fundamental principles of the finite element method and the three basic steps (model creation, solution, and validation and interpretation) involved in using it to examine structural mechanics. Validation is a critical step in the analysis, without which researchers cannot evaluate the extent to which the model represents or is relevant to the real biological condition. We discuss the method's considerable potential as a tool to test biomechanical hypotheses, and major hurdles involved in doing so reliably, from the perspective of researchers interested in functional morphology and paleontology. We conclude with a case study to illustrate how researchers deal with many of the factors and assumptions involved in finite element analysis. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.