Design and Analysis of a Polymeric Left Ventricular Simulator via Computational Modelling

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Cardiovascular Research
• Medical Device Testing

Background:

• Preclinical testing of cardiovascular implants is crucial but often costly or ethically complex.
• Existing testbeds (mock circulatory systems, isolated hearts) use expensive hardware.
• Computational simulations can be simplified or computationally intensive.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the concept design of a novel, low-cost left ventricular simulator.
• To create a realistic and efficient test platform for cardiovascular devices.
• To address the need for accessible preclinical testing methods.

Main Methods:

• Designed a left ventricular simulator using latex rubber actuated by pneumatic artificial muscles.
• Ensured geometric similarity to a native left ventricle.
• Utilized finite element simulations and experimental testing to evaluate performance.

Main Results:

• The simulator demonstrated anatomical dimensions for basal diameter and long axis length.
• Finite element simulations predicted ~17° apical rotation and ~11 mm longitudinal shortening.
• Experimental results showed an 18° twist angle and 5 mm longitudinal shortening.

Conclusions:

• The left ventricular simulator accurately replicates native heart twist and shortening.
• The device functions similarly to a native left ventricle.
• It holds potential as a versatile and cost-effective test platform for cardiovascular implants.