Numerical time-domain modelling of hoof-ground interaction during the stance phase.

The research utilizes mathematical modelling to gain insight into hoof-ground interaction during a horse’s stance phase, a process that previously relied heavily on experimental studies. The data generated through this new approach provides new insights into the effect of different ground properties and ground damping on the forces exerted by a horse during locomotion.

Research Objective

• The goal of this research was to approach the complex interactions between a horse’s hoof and the ground during its stance phase (The period in stride where the horse’s foot is in contact with the ground) from a biomechanical perspective using mathematical modelling.
• This modeling aimed to explain observations made during experimental studies such as the acceleration of the hoof and interacting forces.

Methodology

• The method used in silico modelling of the hoof-ground interaction, which includes the limb, hoof, and unlimited representation of the ground.
• Finite element model was utilized to interpret this interaction alongside the scaled boundary finite element method to capture radiation damping during the stance phase.
• Motoric forces, or the driving forces of a horse during locomotion, were factored into the modelling.

Results

• The findings from the numerical model that shows acceleration-time relations for the hoof at different trotting speeds were compared to previous acceleration-time relations and showed alignment.
• From the model approach, power loss due to different ground properties and ground damping was calculated in connection with the maximum limb force during the stance phase.

Conclusions

• The researchers intentionally employed a simplified model for the representation of the limb, hoof and ground based on material features and spatial resolution. This may serve as the groundwork for future refinement regarding contact properties as well as bone and joint structure integration.
• The comparison of the model’s results against experimentally obtained results showed its applicability, offering valuable insights into the processes occurring during hoof-ground interaction.