An organosynthetic soft robotic respiratory simulator

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Respiratory Physiology
• Robotics

Background:

• Understanding diaphragm function is crucial for respiratory physiology.
• Existing models often lack the fidelity to accurately replicate breathing mechanics.
• There is a need for advanced tools to study respiratory diseases and test medical devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a benchtop model simulating diaphragm motion and function.
• To create an interactive platform for studying respiratory physiology and pathology.
• To provide a testbed for novel thoracic devices, reducing reliance on animal models.

Main Methods:

• Constructed a high-fidelity anthropomorphic diaphragm model using thermoplastic and elastomeric materials based on clinical imaging.
• Integrated pneumatic artificial muscles programmed for clinically relevant movements.
• Incorporated organic lungs into a two-chambered (thorax/abdomen) benchtop system to demonstrate breathing mechanics and pressure changes.

Main Results:

• Successfully recreated pressure changes driving lung inflation and deflation.
• Demonstrated the model's ability to simulate various breathing patterns and disease states by adjusting input parameters.
• Instrumented the model with sensors for real-time measurement of pressures, volumes, and flows.

Conclusions:

• The robotic diaphragm model effectively elucidates fundamental respiratory physiological concepts and pathologies.
• This innovative model serves as a valuable pedagogical tool for students and a testbed for thoracic medical devices.
• The system offers a significant improvement over existing models, potentially reducing the need for animal testing.