Vascular Flow Simulation Device Using Peristaltic Pump
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for studying human and animal neurovascular pathways lack realistic and accurate simulation, due to the need to prevent adverse health effects on living subjects and the absence of neurovascular flows in deceased subjects.
Innovation Solution
A vascular flow simulation device comprising a housing with electronic components, a peristaltic pump, and a system for simulating model blood flow through model blood vessels, with connection points allowing for the flow to be directed through multiple vessels, mimicking real-life vascular or neurovascular flows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional study methods are used on living subjects, then adverse health effects can be prevented, but realistic and accurate simulation of neurovascular flows cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the neurovascular system using digital modeling and simulation technology. This virtual replica allows researchers to study neurovascular flows without exposing living subjects to harmful procedures, while maintaining anatomical and physiological accuracy through detailed 3D reconstructions and fluid dynamics modeling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical mechanical interventions on living subjects with computational methods and virtual experimentation. Instead of performing physical procedures on living organisms, the system uses computer-based simulations to model and analyze neurovascular flow patterns, eliminating harmful physical contact while preserving scientific validity.
2Reliability
If traditional study methods are used on deceased subjects, then adverse health effects are avoided, but neurovascular flows cannot be simulated due to absence of actual flow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual replica of the neurovascular system that preserves the anatomical structure of deceased subjects while introducing simulated flow patterns. The digital model captures the unique vascular architecture and allows reconstruction of physiological flow dynamics that were present during life, even though the actual subject is deceased.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary digital reconstruction and modeling of the neurovascular system before any physical study begins. By pre-processing anatomical data and creating virtual flow simulations in advance, the system can analyze neurovascular dynamics without requiring actual flow to be present during the study procedure.
3Reliability
If virtual simulation models are created, then realistic neurovascular flow simulation is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the complex neurovascular simulation system into separate functional modules: anatomical modeling module, fluid dynamics module, visualization module, and data processing module. Each segment handles specific aspects of the simulation independently, making the overall complex system more manageable and easier to optimize for realism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent develops a multi-functional simulation platform that can handle various neurovascular scenarios and anatomical variations within a single integrated system. The universal model framework can accommodate different patient-specific anatomies and flow conditions without requiring completely separate systems for each application, thereby managing complexity through versatility.
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
The device provides a realistic and accurate simulation of vascular or neurovascular flows, enhancing education and surgical training for cardiovascular and neurovascular systems without risking adverse health effects.
Implementation Method 1
a peristaltic pump configured to cause the model blood simulant to flow from the outlet, through the model blood vessel towards one or more connection points
Data Source
AI summary
A device is described that provides simulated vascular flow. The device includes connection points for receiving and providing model blood to one or more model blood vessels. In one example of the device of the present invention, a peristaltic pump causes model blood to flow from an outlet, and through a model blood vessel towards one or more connection points. The connection point(s) may allow the model blood to flow to other model blood vessels. The model blood vessel may be attached to an apparatus contained by one or more support platforms.