A novel interface for hybrid mock circulations to evaluate ventricular assist devices

IEEE Trans Biomed Eng. 2013 Feb;60(2):507-16. doi: 10.1109/TBME.2012.2230000. Epub 2012 Nov 27.

Abstract

This paper presents a novel mock circulation for the evaluation of ventricular assist devices (VADs), which is based on a hardware-in-the-loop concept. A numerical model of the human blood circulation runs in real time and computes instantaneous pressure, volume, and flow rate values. The VAD to be tested is connected to a numerical-hydraulic interface, which allows the interaction between the VAD and the numerical model of the circulation. The numerical-hydraulic interface consists of two pressure-controlled reservoirs, which apply the computed pressure values from the model to the VAD, and a flow probe to feed the resulting VAD flow rate back to the model. Experimental results are provided to show the proper interaction between a numerical model of the circulation and a mixed-flow blood pump.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Computer Simulation
  • Equipment Design*
  • Feedback
  • Heart-Assist Devices*
  • Humans
  • Models, Cardiovascular*
  • Pressure
  • Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted*