Low-cost Simulator Research Articles

Research on a simulating device for electric transmission characteristics of long-distance subsea umbilical cable

Subsea umbilical cable is an important link to transmit power and signals in subsea production system, often lasts for tens of kilometers in deep-sea projects. It is expensive, bulky, and inconvenient to transport. In this article, a compact, low-cost umbilical cable electrical simulator is proposed, which can be equivalent to the real umbilical cable in power transmission characteristics and can adjust parameters in a certain range. By studying the electrical transmission characteristics of long umbilical cable, the calculation method of electrical transmission characteristics is determined. A simulation device for simulating the transmission characteristics of umbilical cable is designed, which can be used to simulate the umbilical cable diameter of 10 and 16 mm2. The voltage drop characteristics, signal transmission attenuation characteristics, and power carrier characteristics of the umbilical cable electrical simulation device are simulated and experimentally analyzed. The experimental results show that the voltage drop characteristics, signal transmission attenuation characteristics, and power carrier characteristics of the umbilical cable electrical simulator are in good agreement with the real umbilical cable. The simulation device of umbilical cable can well simulate the power and signal transmission characteristics of real umbilical cable.

Development and validation of a transanal endoscopic rectal purse string simulator.

Rectal purse string placement for transanal mesorectal excision is challenging, and practice is difficult. The objective of this study is to build an endoscopic rectal purse string simulator and provide evidence for the validity of its use. A low-cost transanal endoscopic rectal purse string simulator was created and used to measure the performance of participants. Participants included general surgery residents, fellows, and staff surgeons from several Canadian university-affiliated institutions across Canada. The performance of the rectal purse string placement was measured by the time to completion of the task as well scoring with a modified objective structured assessment of technical skills (OSATS) score and a modified advanced laparoscopic suturing (ALS) score. Thirty-nine participants were recruited into the study. Participants were split into three groups, based on prior experience with laparoscopic suturing, for the analysis of suturing a rectal purse string on the simulator based on three performance measures. There was a significant difference found in all three measures of performance in the three groups (time to completion p = 0.014, mean blinded OSATS score p = 0.007, mean blinded ALS score p = 0.020). Participants with previous laparoscopic suturing had significantly faster times to completion and higher skills scores when compared to residents (time: 5.1 ± 1.4min vs 9.0 ± 4.8min, p = 0.005; OSATS: 19.7 ± 2.8 vs 13.0 ± 5.8, p = 0.00398, ALS: 27.4 ± 4.0 vs 18.9 ± 8.5, p = 0.0151). A transanal endoscopic purse string simulator was constructed and preliminary testing has shown variable performance based on prior laparoscopic suturing experience.

A low-cost portable simulator of a domestic cat larynx for teaching endotracheal intubation

ObjectiveTo design and construct an affordable simulator of the cat larynx for training intubation maneuvers and to share the designs for its fabrication. Study designResearch and development study. AnimalsA domestic cat. MethodsThe cadaver of a cat, dead by natural causes, was frozen in sternal recumbency with the neck extended and the mouth wide open. A computed tomography image was acquired and used to construct a digital three-dimensional (3D) model of the pharynx and trachea. A digitally adapted model was 3D-printed and used to generate a silicone model of these structures, which was placed within a wooden container. The quality of the simulator was assessed by 46 veterinary anesthesiologists and veterinarians with experience in tracheal intubation maneuvers, and their opinions were obtained through an anonymous questionnaire. ResultsSeveral preliminary prototypes were assessed regarding stability, texture and cost. Finally, a silicone model of a cat larynx (LaryngoCUBE) was produced and encased in a wooden container. Results from the questionnaire showed high scores regarding anatomy, tissue texture and intubation maneuver realism, compared with the real procedure. Conclusionsand clinical relevance Use of LaryngoCUBE as a training tool may improve the skills of students and reduce the use of animals for teaching endotracheal intubation. Blueprints and computational models are provided online so that the simulator can be fully reproduced.

Feasibility and Validity of a Low-Cost Racing Simulator in Driving Assessment after Stroke.

There is a myriad of methodologies to assess driving performance after a stroke. These include psychometric tests, driving simulation, questionnaires, and/or road tests. Research-based driving simulators have emerged as a safe, convenient way to assess driving performance after a stroke. Such traditional research simulators are useful in recreating street traffic scenarios, but are often expensive, with limited physics models and graphics rendering. In contrast, racing simulators developed for motorsport professionals and enthusiasts offer high levels of realism, run on consumer-grade hardware, and can provide rich telemetric data. However, most offer limited simulation of traffic scenarios. This pilot study compares the feasibility of research simulation and racing simulation in a sample with minor stroke. We determine that the racing simulator is tolerated well in subjects with a minor stroke. There were correlations between research and racing simulator outcomes with psychometric tests associated with driving performance, such as the Trails Making Test Part A, Snellgrove Maze Task, and the Motricity Index. We found correlations between measures of driving speed on a complex research simulator scenario and racing simulator lap time and maximum tires off track. Finally, we present two models, using outcomes from either the research or racing simulator, predicting road test failure as linked to a previously published fitness-to-drive calculator that uses psychometric screening.

Real-time simulator and offline/online closed-loop test bed for power system modeling and development

The high complexity of modern power systems forces engineers to design, implement, and test different equipment, precisely. The real-time simulator is one of the best tools for a researcher to test and verify complex power systems in the laboratories. Based on this issue, they can study power system control methods as well as the effects of various models in the partially simulated system. This paper presents a low-cost and versatile power system simulator that is applicable for a wide range of real-time hardware in the loop (RT-HIL) simulations of power systems. To implement the proposed closed-loop simulator, all the essential parts of a power plant, including generator, turbine-governor, excitation system (automatic voltage regulator (AVR), and power system stabilizer (PSS)), grid interconnection and loads are implemented in MATLAB/Simulink environment. To achieve fast and reliable measurement functions, dedicated programs are developed in the LabVIEW real-time and related FPGA programming environments. The data transfer between the MATLAB/Simulink model and LABVIEW and its real-time hardware (PXIe-8133) is accomplished by building a *.dll file as an inbuilt function. A HIL simulation of the excitation system is implemented using a real excitation cabinet to test system capability and also investigate system reaction against disturbances. The performance of the proposed simulator is investigated under various scenarios such as excitation voltage set-point change, the step response of automatic voltage regulator, network three-phase fault, torque step, and step load changes. The close correspondence between HIL and MATLAB/Simulink simulations reveals the validity of the implemented model for the excitation system as well as the effectiveness, flexibility, versatility, applicability, and usefulness of the offline/online closed-loop simulator for power system modeling and development.

Development of a low-cost strabismus surgery simulation model.

Strabismus surgery training has historically focussed on the "see one, do one and teach one" approach. Simulation training offers an alternative to practice surgical skills without direct patient involvement. However, current simulation models for strabismus surgery are limited due to concerns regarding use of animal or human tissue and financial cost limiting practice. Our aim was to build and validate a low-cost model for obtaining the core skills required in strabismus surgery. A low-cost strabismus model was developed using commercially available materials. Ophthalmic trainees, fellows and consultants were surveyed using a questionnaire to assess the realism and training utility of the model using a five-point Likert scale (1 = unacceptable, 2 = poor, 3 = acceptable, 4 = favourable and 5 = excellent) whilst simulating a horizontal muscle resection task. Forty-two ophthalmologists completed the questionnaire. The model scored highly for muscle securing and suturing (median: 4.00) and suturing. Muscle dissection and conjunctiva were considered poor (median: 3.00, 2.50, respectively). Overall, participants felt that the model simulated strabismus surgery well (median: 4.00) and was comparable to other dry simulation models (median: 4.00). Our study describes a favourable training model that can be used for independent practice of core strabismus surgical techniques. However, it remains a technical challenge to replicate certain ocular anatomy using commercially available materials.

“POMELO PROJECT” - a simple and low cost simulator for harvesting skin graft by plastic surgery residents

BackgroundHarvesting partial thickness skin grafts is an important technical skill the training plastic surgeon is required to hone. Historically accomplished via manual dermatome (Humby's knife) or the modern day electric dermatome. ObjectivePresenting a means of practicing the use of Humby’s knife for novice surgeons. Methods15 plastic surgeons comprising 8 seniors and 7 residents, in a single tertiary center participated. Each utilised a Humby knife to harvest 4 skin grafts from a Pomelo. The graft areas were measured via computerised image processing, comparing measures of graft harvest consistency across groups of surgeons. ResultsIn the resident surgeon group, the average relative difference between exact graft area and encompassing area was 0.45, as compared with 0.15 in the Senior surgeon group, indicating a greater degree of inconsistency in graft harvest. Comparisons across groups yielded significant differences per each of the 4 grafts harvested (p <=0.005). Limitationssingle center and small cohort (inherent to the sparsity of plastic surgeons), marginal statistical evidence. ConclusionsCitrus Maxima (Pomelo) is a useful substrate to instruct and practice the use of Humby knife effectively, allowing novice surgeons to practice the manual manoeuvres required therefore as well as increase confidence in its subsequent operative use.

The SpineBox: A Freely Available, Open-access, 3D-printed Simulator Design for Lumbar Pedicle Screw Placement.

BackgroundThe recent COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the need for innovation in cost-effective and easily produced surgical simulations for trainee education that are not limited by physical confines of location. This can be accomplished with the use of desktop three-dimensional (3D) printing technology. This study describes the creation of a low-cost and open-access simulation for anatomical learning and pedicle screw placement in the lumbar spine, which is termed the SpineBox.Materials and methodsAn anonymized CT scan of the lumbar spine was obtained and converted into 3D software files of the L1-L5 vertebral bodies. A computer-assisted design (CAD) software was used to assemble the vertebral models into a simulator unit in anatomical order to produce an easily prototyped simulator. The printed simulator was layered with foam in order to replicate soft tissue structures. The models were instrumented with pedicle screws using standard operative technique and examined under fluoroscopy.ResultsTen SpineBoxes were created using a single desktop 3D printer, with accurate replication of the cortico-cancellous interface using previously validated techniques. The models were able to be instrumented with pedicle screws successfully and demonstrated quality representation of bony structures under fluoroscopy. The total cost of model production was under $10.ConclusionThe SpineBox represents the first open-access simulator for the instruction of spinal anatomy and pedicle screw placement. This study aims to provide institutions across the world with an economical and feasible means of spine surgical simulation for neurosurgical trainees and to encourage other rapid prototyping laboratories to investigate innovative means of creating educational surgical platforms in the modern era.

Low-cost thoracentesis simulation for nurse practitioner students.

The fast-paced hospital setting is not routinely a conducive environment for practicing procedural skills. Simulation learning can provide an opportunity for learners to achieve accuracy, confidence, and competence when performing the thoracentesis procedure. The cost associated with many commercial-brand manikins and the additional supplies needed to teach thoracentesis is expensive. However, thoracentesis is a skill many nurse practitioners (NPs) need to learn. The use of a whole, unstuffed turkey purchased at a supermarket to simulate a thoracentesis is a way in which NP students can safely practice this skill. Nurse practitioner students perform assessment skills on another student, whereas students perform the thoracentesis procedure on this turkey carcass. Nurse educators can teach NP students to safely, accurately, and efficiently perform a thoracentesis procedure using a low-cost simulator. Nurse educators can teach NP students how to perform a thoracentesis using a turkey carcass at a relatively low cost with a high yield.

A low-cost stoma simulator

Stoma formation is a common paediatric surgical procedure and yet, there is no low-cost stoma model for technical skills training. We describe a low-cost low-fidelity simulator for stoma formation made from simple easily available materials using porcine bowel and skin. The model was introduced at a regional training day for paediatric surgical registrars. All the trainees rated it as excellent and life-like. We describe an inexpensive stoma model for simulation-based training in technical skills especially in low-middle-income countries (LMICs) due to the cost benefit.

Low-Cost Stereotactic Brain Biopsy Simulation Model

Simulation training improves technical skills in a safe environment. Stereotactic techniques are widely used in neurosurgery for different kinds of procedures. The objective of the study was to describe a combined cadaveric and synthetic low-cost stereotactic simulation model and its validation by neurosurgeons. The brain was made using self-supporting gel with solid and cystic lesions. We used imaging scans to calculate x, y, and z target coordinates. A standard frame needle biopsy was performed. We calculated the number of mistakes and time needed to accomplish the task, and we evaluated the frame assembly and biopsy performance. Wilcoxon signed rank was used to analyzed the data; we considered a P value <0.05 as statistically significant. The median initial number of mistakes was 32(interquartile range [IQR]: 27.5-37) and after repeated training and feedback the final median number was 3.5 (IQR: 2-6) (P < 0.001). The median time needed to finish the exercises before training was 1020.5 seconds (IQR: 908-1125.5) and after using the model the final median time was 479 seconds (IQR: 423-503) (P < 0.0001). We presented a stereotactic simulation model with immediate haptic feedback. The model can be easily handmade in any neurosurgical laboratory. This model allows neurosurgeons in training to acquire and improve stereotactic techniques, reducing the number of surgical mistakes and time needed to finish the task.

Modelo simulador de baixo custo para treinamento de septoplastia

Objetivo: Desenvolver um modelo simulador de baixo custo para treinamento de técnicas de Septoplastia para médicos residentes em Otorrinolaringologia. Métodos: Trata-se de uma pesquisa tecnológica com desenvolvimento experimental de um protótipo de cirurgia. O modelo foi constituído por um septo artificial produzido com materiais de baixo custo e fácil aquisição, associado à um suporte em formato de hemi-crânio desenvolvido e impresso em impressora 3D. Adaptações foram realizadas para garantir que o resultado final fosse o mais objetivo e prático possível, facilitando assim sua utilização. Resultados: Com o modelo, foi possível treinar as etapas iniciais de um procedimento de septoplastia, podendo ser realizado em variados ambientes, devido seu baixo peso, facilitando seu transporte. Permite que o usuário se familiarize com os instrumentais de septoplastia e o uso de fotoforo em um espaço cirúrgico limitado que é a cavidade nasal, dando-lhes a oportunidade de melhorar a destreza manual, essencial durante um procedimento real. Conclusão: O presente protótipo, oferece uma nova opção para treinamento e para melhorar as habilidades cirúrgicas do médico residente, conferindo maior segurança e destreza, mediante treinamento prévio em um modelo específico, para posterior transferência destas habilidades para um ambiente cirúrgico real.

Low-cost simulation systems for surgical training: a narrative review

Low-cost simulation systems for surgical training: a narrative review

Improving Learners' Comfort With Cesarean Sections Through the Use of High-Fidelity, Low-Cost Simulation

Several studies have demonstrated effective simulation-based training for laparoscopic procedures in OB/GYN, but limited simulation curricula exist for abdominal procedures, particularly cesarean sections (CSs). We developed a high-fidelity modification of an existing CS model costing about $25 and incorporated it into a 90-minute teaching simulation event for medical students and OB/GYN residents in a single academic program. The simulation included a structured curriculum, pre-/postsimulation surveys, a surgical instrument review, a mannequin with the CS model containing a fetus in breech position, and live video streaming. Our surveys assessed participants' comfort with the procedure and its related components on a 5-point scale, and we used a paired t test to analyze our data. Twenty-two learners (eight third-year medical students, one fourth-year medical student, three first-year residents, four second-year residents, one third-year resident, four fourth-year residents, and one unknown level) participated in this simulation. We found a statistically significant improvement in perceived CS instrument knowledge, suturing skills, and satisfaction with the model among all participants. Only third-year medical students had a statistically significant increase in comfort level in performing a CS after the simulation. Video streaming engaged a wider audience, but poor lighting and audio limited its efficacy. Using this simulation model at the end of medical school or early in residency may have the greatest positive effect on resident comfort with CSs. This low-cost and versatile model can be used across educational settings, including OB/GYN interest group activities, intern boot camp, and interprofessional emergency drills.

Evaluating the user experience of omnidirectional VR walking simulators

Omnidirectional treadmills (ODTs) have been traditionally proposed as a promising solution for users’ navigation in large-scale virtual environments. These mechanical devices enable users to perform locomotive motion with 360-deg freedom, while keeping their position fixed in the physical world. However, most locomotion approaches based on omnidirectional treadmills have presented either high acquisition or maintenance costs, being the capabilities of the general public, or a limited reliability. In this paper, we present a comparative usability and acceptance study with real users evaluating the two most common approaches for the development of this type of Virtual Reality (VR) walking simulators, whether flat-based or bowl-based omnidirectional treadmills. The results of our study indicate that both design alternatives accomplish a similar performance and can be considered as personal, low-cost walking simulators for navigation in virtual environments. Nevertheless, when compared between themselves, the users preferred the bowl-based omnidirectional VR treadmill when following three different selection criteria: overall preference, recommendation, and usefulness. Last, a correlation analysis showed statically significant correspondences among the parameters concerning to the simulation presence, which in turn, are related to the global scores and responses given by the participants of the Virtual Reality experiment.

Development and testing of a low cost simulation manikin for extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) using 3-dimensional printing

BackgroundThere has been an explosive growth of ECPR within new and established ECMO programs worldwide with the concomitant need for simulation trainers. However, current commercially available ECMO simulation models are expensive and lack many standard cardiorespiratory resuscitative (CPR) features. ObjectiveTo use 3-dimensional (3D) printing to develop a training manikin for comprehensive ECPR simulation. MethodsA standard commercially available CPR manikin with airway model was used as the base model for modification. An inexpensive 3D printer was used to print a modular plastic pelvis. A medical silicone gel incorporated silicone femoral vasculature component was manufactured with connection to a gravity fed vascular system. ResultsThe resulting modified manikin included the modular in-house designed ECMO cannulation and vascular structures wedded to the commercially available airway and CPR components. In simulation exercise involving first responders, paramedics, and emergency and critical care physicians, the model was reported as realistic with ultrasound views, cannulation, and resuscitative components functional. The entire cost for development of the ECMO component was estimated at $2000 Australian dollars AUD, including the printer purchase and supplies. Future reuse of components is estimated to cost less than $5 AUD per simulation run. ConclusionsA novel in-house modified manikin for ECPR was developed that was cost-efficient and realistic to use from first response through to establishment of ECMO circulation.

An approximation to the PTT viscoelastic model for gas assisted injection moulding simulation

An approximation to the Phan-Thien Tanner (PTT) constitutive model is developed with the aim of giving low-cost simulation of Gas Assisted Injection Moulding (GAIM) while incorporating important viscoelastic characteristics. It is shown that the developed model gives a response typical of full viscoelastic models in transient and steady-state uniaxial and constant shear rate deformations. The model is incorporated into a 3D finite element GAIM simulation which uses the ‘pseudo-concentration’ method to predict residual polymer, and applied to published experimental results for a Boger fluid and a shear-thinning polystyrene melt.It is shown that the simulation gives a very good match to published results for the Boger fluid which show increasing Residual Wall Thickness (RWT) with increasing Deborah number. Against the shear-thinning polymer, the quality of match depends upon which of two ‘plausible’ relaxation times is chosen; qualitatively different results arise from two different means of estimating a single relaxation time. A ‘multi-mode’ approach is developed to avoid this uncertainty. It is shown that the multi-mode approach gives decreasing RWT with increasing Deborah number in agreement with the published experimental results, and avoids the issues that arise from estimating a single relaxation time for a molten polymer.

Simulator Panel Surya Ekonomis untuk Pengujian MPPT pada Kondisi Berbayang Sebagian (Low Cost PV Photovoltaic Simulator for MPPT Testing under Partial Shading)

This paper describes a low-cost solar panel simulator for Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) method testing, especially under partially shading conditions. The simulator consists of a DC power supply and a solar panel. The simulator works to emulate the characteristics of solar panels without depending on artificial illumination or sunlight. The simulator can represent the needed irradiation through the settings on the DC power supply. The experimental setup is developed to emulate the characteristics of solar panels at Standard Test Conditions (STC) irradiation conditions as well as varying irradiation conditions. Testing is done to emulate irradiation varies from 200-1,000 W/m2. To emulate the characteristics of solar panels in partial shading conditions, two DC power supply units and two solar panels are used. Each solar panel is simulated to receive different solar irradiations. The test results show that the simulator can emulate the characteristics of solar panels under partial shading conditions which has several maximum power points. Furthermore, partial shading conditions are simulated under varying irradiation conditions which resulted varying maximum power point values.

Planning, construction and use of handmade simulators to enhance the teaching and learning in Obstetrics.

Objective:to describe the development process and present the results of a pilot study on the use of low-cost handmade simulators for teaching and learning Obstetrics.Method:presentation of 3 low-cost simulators designing, based on educational needs identified in real-world training contexts. The developing process is presented in detail and each simulator was tested and re-tested, being submitted to improvements until their final version. The simulators presented are: delivery simulator shorts, Neoprene uterus for postpartum hemorrhage management, and perineal repair simulator. A pilot study was carried out to evaluate the perception of apprentices through a structured questionnaire, using the Kirkpatrick evaluation model. Data were descriptively analyzed.Results:the respondents (31 apprentices) positively evaluated the simulators, perceiving significant gains in theoretical knowledge, ability to solve clinical problems and decreased anxiety to deal with situations similar to those simulated.Conclusion:low-cost, handmade simulators are feasible and effective, resulting in positive learner evaluations. Their availability as open technology allows the dissemination of their use.

Development and Validation of a Homemade, Low-Cost Laparoscopic Simulator for Resident Surgeons (LABOT).

Several studies have demonstrated that training with a laparoscopic simulator improves laparoscopic technical skills. We describe how to build a homemade, low-cost laparoscopic training simulator (LABOT) and its validation as a training instrument. First, sixty surgeons filled out a survey characterized by 12 closed-answer questions about realism, ergonomics, and usefulness for surgical training (global scores ranged from 1—very insufficient to 5—very good). The results of the questionnaires showed a mean (±SD) rating score of 4.18 ± 0.65 for all users. Then, 15 students (group S) and 15 residents (group R) completed 3 different tasks (T1, T2, T3), which were repeated twice to evaluate the execution time and the number of users’ procedural errors. For T1, the R group had a lower mean execution time and a lower rate of procedural errors than the S group; for T2, the R and S groups had a similar mean execution time, but the R group had a lower rate of errors; and for T3, the R and S groups had a similar mean execution time and rate of errors. On a second attempt, all the participants tended to improve their results in doing these surgical tasks; nevertheless, after subgroup analysis of the T1 results, the S group had a better improvement of both parameters. Our laparoscopic simulator is simple to build, low-cost, easy to use, and seems to be a suitable resource for improving laparoscopic skills. In the future, further studies should evaluate the potential of this laparoscopic box on long-term surgical training with more complex tasks and simulation attempts.