On the continuum muscle modeling

Abstract: Modeling muscle behavior using techniques developed in continuum mechanics is a growing eld of research. The developed models allow for a more generalized way of computing stresses and deformations, specially, when it comes to using nite element techniques. Current continuum muscle models mostly focus on the kinetics of the muscle contraction, while other fundamental physiological processes such as, the membrane excitation and the activation process are disregarded. These processes are essential to initiate the contraction, and to determine the amount of generated force, respectively. In this thesis, muscle modeling is carried out in a thermodynamically consistent framework where the physiological processes governing muscle contraction are included. The behavior of the muscle is described by dissipative constitutive equations derived from applying the principles of thermodynamics. The muscle model is then validated through comparing the model response to available experimental data.