Stretchable 3D Cardiac Replica for Device Interaction Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for creating physical models of cardiac structures lack biologically accurate materials and quantitative information on mechanical device-anatomy interactions, with manual segmentation being common and limited applicability to 3D echocardiographic data due to low signal-to-noise ratio, making procedural planning inaccurate.
Innovation Solution
A method involving 3D printing of inner molds, casting biomimetic materials like silicone or PVA cryogel, and integrating pressure sensors to create stretchable 3D physical replicas of cardiac structures, allowing for semi-automatic segmentation and realistic simulation of device interactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If commercial 3D printing technologies are used to create physical models, then the models can be produced, but they do not use biologically accurate materials and lack quantitative mechanical interaction information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameters by using biomimetic materials (silicone, PVA cryogel) that replicate the mechanical properties of cardiac tissues. These materials have specific elasticity moduli and tensile strengths that match biological tissues, transforming the material characteristics from generic 3D printing materials to biologically accurate substitutes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material systems combining different biomimetic materials with complementary properties. For example, silicone rubber is combined with PVA cryogel, or layered with textile reinforcements, to achieve both structural integrity and biological fidelity in the physical models.
2Measurement precision
If manual segmentation is used for cardiac structure modeling, then models can be created, but the process is time-consuming and lacks quantitative mechanical information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical segmentation process with automated image processing algorithms and machine learning-based segmentation systems. These computational methods automatically identify and delineate cardiac structures from imaging data, eliminating the need for manual tracing while improving consistency and accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the segmented models are validated against original imaging data, and adjustments are made iteratively. The system provides feedback on segmentation quality metrics, allowing for automated refinement and ensuring accuracy without requiring extensive manual intervention.
3Loss of information
If 3D echocardiographic data is used for modeling, then cardiac structure information can be obtained, but segmentation is limited due to low signal-to-noise ratio
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary image preprocessing actions to 3D echocardiographic data before segmentation. This includes noise filtering, contrast enhancement, and artifact removal that prepare the low signal-to-noise ratio data for successful automated segmentation, extracting cardiac structure information that would otherwise be obscured.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the imaging parameters by applying various image processing algorithms that enhance the signal-to-noise ratio. Techniques such as temporal averaging, spatial filtering, and adaptive thresholding change the parameter quality of the echocardiographic data, making segmented structures more detectable and measurable.
4Loss of information
If existing imaging techniques are used for procedural planning, then anatomical visualization is provided, but quantitative mechanical device-anatomy interaction information is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces physical models as an intermediary between digital imaging data and procedural planning. These tangible models serve as a mediator that translates abstract imaging information into concrete, touchable representations with embedded sensors, providing mechanical interaction feedback that bridges the gap between visualization and quantitative assessment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates pneumatic and hydraulic systems within the physical models to simulate blood flow and pressure dynamics. These fluid systems interact with device prototypes inserted into the models, generating quantitative data on mechanical interactions such as force, pressure, and flow resistance that mimic in vivo conditions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate and semi-automated cardiac structure modeling with biologically accurate materials, providing quantitative information on device interactions, enhancing procedural planning and safety by simulating realistic device-anatomy interactions.
Implementation Method 1
casting a biomimetic material on an outer surface of the inner mold; and solidifying the casted material to form the 3D physical replica of the cardiac structure
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a 3D physical replica of a cardiac structure or a vascular structure and a method for manufacturing the same. According to an embodiment, a method for manufacturing a 3D physical replica of a cardiac structure comprises: printing an inner mold according to a 3D model of the cardiac structure; casting a biomimetic material on an outer surface of the inner mold; and solidifying the casted material to form the 3D physical replica of the cardiac structure, wherein the solidified material is stretchable.