Multi-Layer Tissue Inserts for Medical Training

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current medical training devices lack realistic simulations of natural human tissue, limiting the effectiveness of training for medical procedures such as injections, surgeries, and wound management.

Innovation Solution

Development of multi-layer tissue inserts and models that accurately mimic human anatomy, including skin, subcutaneous, fascia, and muscle layers, using a combination of platinum-cured silicone thermosets and other materials to provide realistic tactile feedback and resistance, which can be used with existing manikins or incorporated into new training systems.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If earlier attempts to mimic human tissue using two-component silicone gels and nylon fabric are used, then basic tissue simulation is achieved, but realistic tactile feedback and anatomical accuracy are inadequate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetissue simulation accuracyVSAvoidrealistic tactile feedback
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The tissue model is divided into multiple distinct layers including skin layer, subcutaneous layer, fascia layer, and muscle layer, each made from materials with different physical properties to accurately represent the unique characteristics of each anatomical layer

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses composite materials consisting of platinum-cured silicone thermoset blended with various additives including silicone oil, silicone foam, pigments, and other compounds to create materials that simultaneously provide anatomical accuracy, realistic tactile feedback, and appropriate mechanical properties for each tissue layer

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Manufacturing precision

If multi-layer tissue inserts with complex material compositions are developed, then realistic tactile feedback and anatomical accuracy are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanatomical accuracyVSAvoidmaterial composition complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent adjusts material parameters such as shore hardness, viscosity, and composition ratios to achieve the desired balance between anatomical accuracy and manufacturing feasibility, using specific ranges for blend ratios and additive concentrations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates additives and pigments into the base silicone materials during the mixing stage before molding, pre-preparing the multi-component material compositions to simplify the overall manufacturing process and ensure uniform distribution of properties throughout each tissue layer

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

These inserts provide a more realistic and effective training environment, allowing medical personnel to practice procedures with greater accuracy and confidence, improving their skills in a stress-free setting before working on actual patients.

Implementation Method 1

platinum-cured silicone thermoset materials... provide realistic tactile feedback and resistance

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

platinum-cured silicone thermoset materials... mimic human anatomy

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectViscoelasticity: Viscoelasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11804149B2Human tissue models, materials, and methods
Publication Date: 2023.10.31 GAUMARD SCIENTIFIC
  • US11804149B2 patent drawing
  • US11804149B2 patent drawing
  • US11804149B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Devices, systems, and methods appropriate for use in medical training that include materials that better mimic natural human tissue are disclosed. In one aspect, multi-layer tissue simulations are provided. In another aspect, male genitalia models are provided. In another aspect, abdominal surgical wall inserts are provided. Systems and methods associated with these devices are also provided.