Microprocessor control of a ventricular volume servo-pump

Measurement of the instantaneous pressure-volume relationship of the left ventricle is fundamental to the study of ventricular mechanics. In order to effectively investigate this relationship, it is necessary to vary and control the time course of ventricular volume change in a variety of prescribed manners. In the past, we used an analog circuit to generate command signals for a servo-pump system which controlled ventricular volume. The use of analog control limited the variety of volume waveforms which could be generated. To overcome this limitation, we developed a new system in which the servo-pump is controlled by an inexpensive microprocessor based computer, capable of generating an unlimited repertoire of volume waveforms. The computer system also made possible the use of adaptive control to increase the system fidelity. Finally, such a system provides for ease of adjustment to new hardware, should future research require it.