| Contact mechanics of rough surfaces and surface wear will be considered. Two types of failures are considered. The first involving rapidly growing failure and the second fatigue type surface failure as a result of repetitive application of load cycle.;The first type of failure will be identified based on surface hysteresis energy loss in a load/unload cycle or examination of fracture toughness of the material near its rough surface.;The above approach will be used to examine both types of failure in joint implants in the human body. These include consideration of implants for hip, ankle, spine and knee. In this case rapid and/or fatigue failures will be considered and related to anticipated implant life cycle based on implant recipient's tolerance level. Hence surface fidelity in terms of the biological host's tolerance of toxicity level due to wear will be used to develop life cycle prediction of an implant.;The second application, rapid and fatigue wear will be examined in commonly used mechanical systems that include spur and helical gearing and rolling element bearings. |
