Sunshine Heart C-Pulse Device Fatigue Optimization Using Abaqus FEA

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Sunshine Heart C-Pulse Device Fatigue Optimization Using Abaqus FEA

Case study showing how finite element analysis optimized balloon membrane thickness and geometry for long-term fatigue performance in an extra-aortic counterpulsation heart assist device.

Published

June 4, 2026

Read time

3 min read

Source

Sunshine Heart used Abaqus/Standard to model hyperelastic polymer balloon behavior, contact with the aorta, and repeated snap-through cycles. The analysis evaluated strain distribution across thickness and identified an optimal shape that minimized strain amplitude while maximizing mean compressive strain. Quarter-symmetry models with Ogden hyperelastic material properties enabled rapid parametric studies, replacing iterative physical testing and confirming durability for over 42 million cycles per year.

Key takeaways

FEA replaced build-and-test cycles for a permanent implantable medical device

Ogden hyperelastic model accurately represented the biocompatible polymer under large strain

Quarter-symmetry shell and solid submodels reduced runtime while capturing fillet strain

Optimal balloon geometry achieved lowest strain amplitude and highest mean compression

Validated model matched bench test force-deflection curves and supported patient-specific sizing

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