Articulating Rib Cage for Dynamic Trauma Simulation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current medical simulation technologies lack realistic and dynamic representations of open surgery environments, particularly in trauma and emergency scenarios, which are crucial for effective training of medical personnel.

Innovation Solution

The development of an open surgery simulator system that includes an articulating rib cage and prosthetic internal organ module, integrated with a simulated torso and wearable wound simulators, to provide realistic and dynamic medical training scenarios, including hemorrhage control and trauma care.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional medical simulation technologies are used, then the training scenarios are simplified and easier to manage, but the realism and dynamic representation of open surgery environments is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverealism of training scenariosVSAvoidcomplexity of simulation system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The simulated torso is divided into multiple independent modules including rib cage sections (anterior, lateral, posterior), vertebral column segments, and separate organ modules. Each module can be independently assembled, configured, and replaced to create different trauma scenarios without requiring complete system replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rib cage modules incorporate articulation joints that allow dynamic movement and positioning to simulate various trauma conditions. The system transitions from static traditional simulators to dynamic configurations where rib sections can be positioned at different angles and orientations to represent collapsed ribs, displaced fractures, or normal anatomical positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If detailed and realistic trauma scenarios are simulated, then the training effectiveness for critical injuries is improved, but the device complexity and assembly requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevariety of trauma scenariosVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The rib cage modules are designed as universal components that can be configured for multiple trauma scenarios. The same anterior rib cage module can be used to simulate flail chest, rib fractures, or pneumothorax by adjusting its position and articulation, eliminating the need for scenario-specific custom components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The modular design allows nested assembly where rib cage sections contain and protect internal organ modules. The vertebral column modules nest within the posterior rib cage structure, and organ modules can be inserted into pre-configured cavities, simplifying the assembly process through hierarchical integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Adaptability or versatility

If static simulation models are used, then the manufacturing and setup are simpler, but the ability to simulate dynamic trauma conditions and anatomical variations is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimulation of trauma conditionsVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces static anatomical models with dynamic modular components. Rib cage sections incorporate articulation joints that enable movement to simulate respiratory motion, trauma-induced displacement, and anatomical variations. This allows the same structural components to represent multiple physiological and pathological states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The articulation joints and modular connections allow continuous adjustment of anatomical parameters such as rib angle, vertebral alignment, and organ position. By changing these parameters, the system can simulate normal anatomy, traumatic deformation, and anatomical variations without requiring different physical models.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11688303B2Simulated torso for an open surgery simulator
Publication Date: 2023.06.27 AMERICAN 3B SCIENTIFIC LP
  • US11688303B2 patent drawing
  • US11688303B2 patent drawing
  • US11688303B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure pertains to systems, devices, and methods for use in medical simulation and training, providing realistic-looking medical effects. More particularly, the present disclosure pertains to systems, devices, and methods for simulating an open surgery environment, including dynamic features and aspects commonly found in trauma, emergency, and combat events. Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a wearable device for simulating wounds and injuries received during a trauma event, and performing associated surgical tasks. Aspects of the present disclosure further relate to a medical training device for Trauma Emergency Casualty Care and Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), including hemorrhage control. Aspects of the present disclosure further relate to an open surgery simulator, which may stand alone or work in combination (e.g., wear) various wound and injury simulators. Aspects of the present disclosure further relate to a simulated torso for an open surgery simulator.