Laminated Simulated Abdominal Wall Without Internal Supports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laparoscopic simulators lack a realistic curvature and anatomical landmarks, and often require additional support structures that detract from the simulation's realism and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A simulated abdominal wall with multiple laminated layers of foam, including a silicone layer, that mimics the convex shape of an insufflated abdomen, providing structural integrity without internal support structures, and includes anatomical landmarks for improved realism and port placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a simulated abdominal wall is made with a convex shape to mimic an insufflated abdomen, then the realism and visual appearance are improved, but the structural stability and resistance to collapse worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The simulated abdominal wall is constructed from multiple layers of foam materials with different densities and properties. The composite structure combines the convex shape requirement with enhanced structural stability, as the layered composite construction provides both the desired aesthetic form and the necessary mechanical strength to resist collapse during surgical simulation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If internal support structures are added to maintain the convex shape, then the structural stability is improved, but the realism and tactile sensation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the need for internal support structures by using externally applied vacuum pressure to maintain the convex shape. This removal of internal supports preserves the realism and tactile sensation of the simulated abdominal wall, as trainees can interact with the surface without encountering artificial structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
A vacuum system is applied to the simulated abdominal wall to maintain its convex shape and structural integrity. The vacuum pressure creates an outward force that counteracts gravitational collapse, allowing the wall to maintain its realistic form without requiring internal mechanical supports that would compromise realism.
3Device complexity
If the simulated abdominal wall is made smaller to fit in the trainer, then the device complexity is reduced, but the available working space and port placement options worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The simulated abdominal wall is designed with a convex, curved surface that maximizes the use of available space within the trainer enclosure. The curvature allows for optimal port placement geometry and creates adequate working space for surgical instruments while maintaining a compact overall device design.
Data Source
AI summary
A simulated abdominal wall for laparoscopic surgical training and methods of making the wall are provided. The simulated abdominal wall is dome-shaped having a visual appearance of an insufflated abdomen. Also, the wall is strong enough to withstand penetration with surgical trocars without unrealistic buckling or deformation. The wall is supported by a frame along the perimeter without any support structures traversing the wall that would interfere with port placement. The wall includes multiple layers connected together to form a unitary wall to fit a laparoscopic trainer. In one method, a projection of a dome is cut from a flat layer of foam material and assembled within a mold cavity. Consecutive layers with the same or different projection pattern are laid up inside the mold cavity. In another method, a vacuum mold together with heat is used to deform each foam layer. Adhesive is applied between layers to simultaneously join the adjacent layers upon deformation.