TY - EJOU AU - Auricchio, F. AU - Petrini, L. AU - Pietrabissa, R. AU - Sacco, E. TI - Numerical modeling of shape-memory alloys in orthodontics T2 - Computer Modeling in Engineering \& Sciences PY - 2003 VL - 4 IS - 3&4 SN - 1526-1506 AB - Since 80’s many devices were developed to exploit the unique blend of mechanical and biocompatibility properties of shape memory alloys in orthodontic applications. It results in a high clinical effectiveness, but also in a spreading of technical knowledge on the properties of the single appliances. The goal of the present contribution is to contrast this sense of bewilderness and to prepare the basis for a simulationtool able to support the orthodontist choice. In particular a finite-element beam with a one-dimensional constitutive law, able to describe the SMA super elasticity and shape memory effect, is presented: it is shown how computer modeling can be helpful in the understanding of the single appliance response as well as in the design of new more advanced, and possibly more effective, applications. KW - Shape memory alloys KW - orthodonticsapplication KW - numerical simulations DO - 10.3970/cmes.2003.004.365