Abstract: A reference deformable body the type of which can be identified, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus enabling identification of the type of the reference deformable body, and an ultrasonic diagnostic method are provided. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes an ultrasonic probe (3) wherein a reference deformable body (16) is attached, a tomographic image constructing unit (6,7), and a display unit (14). The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is characterized by further including a storing unit configured to store the relationship between the ID given to the reference deformable body (16) and a type of the reference deformable body (16), and a type identifying unit (54) configured to read out the type of the reference deformable body (16) corresponding to the ID of the reference deformable body (16) which is attached to ultrasonic probe (3) from storing unit (52) and identify the type of the reference deformable body.

Abstract: A model of an adult penis is provided for use in practicing and testing various circumcision procedures. The model includes a form in the approximate shape of an adult penis and a removable and replaceable practice foreskin positionable over the form. The form includes a glans component and a base component. A tube of flexible material is provided to form the artificial foreskin over the glans and base components. A method of forming an practice foreskin for use in testing and training a practitioner in circumcision procedures is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and system for providing performance evaluations, on a timely basis, to students or trainees, is provided. In one contemplated embodiment, the inventive method and system are used in health care training programs to form an information feedback loop whereby clinical and simulated clinical performance evaluations are inputted, or gathered and stored, and then made available to the health care practitioner and to his/her educator(s) throughout the health care training program thereby increasing the effectiveness of the training program by allowing the program to be continuously tailored to address the needs of the health care practitioner.

Abstract: An anesthesia administration instructional aid comprises a pipe, a penetrable material in the pipe, and a reservoir located at a predefined distance from the penetrable material. A method for learning administration of epidural and combined spinal epidural anesthesia comprises the steps of: (a) obtaining an anesthesia administration instructional aid, wherein the instructional aid comprises a pipe, a penetrable material in the pipe, and a reservoir located at a predefined distance from the penetrable material; (b) filling a fluid into the reservoir; (c) inserting a larger needle having a lumen and a tip through the penetrable material such that the tip of the larger needle rests between the reservoir and the penetrable material; and (d) inserting a smaller needle having a tip through the lumen of the larger needle such that the tip of the smaller needle pierces and rests inside the reservoir.

Abstract: An intelligent tissue mimicking ultrasonic phantom, which is a temperature-sensitive polymer gel having the following acoustic properties and other physical characteristics: acoustic velocity: 1500-1550 m/s; acoustic impedance: (1.50?1.60)×106 Pa·s/m; density: 1.01-1.06 g/cm3; and a denaturation temperature, namely, a Lower Critical Solution Temperature (LCST) or a Volume Phase Transition Temperature at which the volume of the phantom changes, adjustable by changing the ratio of raw materials, around which there is a reversible phase transformation between the opaque phase and the transparent phase. Said gel can be a polymer of isopropylacrylamide (NIPA).

Abstract: Medical patient simulator comprising a torso (2) that contains an artificial lung (6), a chest skin (3) and means (8, 9) for pulling the chest skin (3) downward in an area corresponding with an area where such retractions occur on a human being. The simulator also provides for changes in the compliance of the lung (6). The lung (6) is situated between two plates (5, 7), the spacing of which can be adjusted. The torso (2) has one actuator (23, 24) on each side of the back to simulate muscular activity. It includes a system for control of pneumatic functions by measuring a representative pressure for each actuator and stopping the filling when a pre-set pressure is reached. It also includes a head with one or more air cushions in a fontanelle area on the head, which may be filled with air to simulate an increased pressure in the brain.

Abstract: Conductive elastomeric circuits are used in various simulated physiological structures such as tissues and organs, enabling feedback to be provided indicating whether a simulated task is being performed correctly. For example, a surgical trainer has a simulated human tissue structure made of an elastomeric composition, at least one reinforcing layer of a fibrous material, and at least one flexible electrical circuit. The surgical trainer preferably includes multiple areas for practicing surgical skills, each with evaluation circuits for providing feedback regarding that skill. Conductive elastomers are also incorporated into other types of medical training simulators, to similarly provide feedback. In another embodiment, a simulated organ has a conductive elastomeric circuit in the periphery of the simulated organ, enabling feedback to be provided to evaluate whether a person is properly manipulating the organ in response to a manual applied pressure.

Abstract: An anatomical model comprising: an inner lumen; and an outer lumen, wherein the inner lumen is disposed inside of the outer lumen so as to create a space therebetween; and further wherein a fluid is disposed within the space, interior to the outer lumen and exterior to the inner lumen, whereby the inner lumen can accurately simulate the mucous membrane lining a mammalian tract.

Abstract: A device system and method for simulating laparoscopic procedures, particularly for the purposes of instruction and/or demonstration. The system comprises one or more virtual organs to be operated on. The organ comprises a plurality of elements, each element having neighboring elements; and a plurality of tensioned connections connecting neighboring elements over said organ, such that force applied at one of said elements propagates via respective neighboring elements provides a distributed reaction over said organ. In addition there is a physical manipulation device for manipulation by a user; and a tracking arrangement for tracking said physical manipulation device and translating motion of said physical manipulation device into application of forces onto said virtual organ. The system is capable of simulating organs moving, cutting, suturing, coagulations and other surgical and surgery-related operations.

Abstract: A simulated physiological structure includes an image layer configured to enhance a visual appearance of the simulated physiological structure. The image layer includes a substrate onto which an image has been printed. Preferably, the substrate is a relatively thin layer, compared to other layers of material in the simulated physiological structure. Where the simulated physiological structure includes surface irregularities, the substrate is preferably sufficiently thin so as to be able to readily conform to the surface irregularities. Particularly preferred substrates include fabrics, fibrous materials, meshes, and plastic sheets. The image, which can be of an actual anatomical element, or a rendering of an anatomical element, is transferred onto the substrate using conventional printing technologies, including ink jet printing. Particularly preferred images illustrate vascular structures and disease conditions.

Abstract: Aspects of the present invention are directed to an anatomical model for training that includes a head portion; at least one auricle portion; at least one ear canal; and at least one cartridge. The at least one cartridge may be adaptable to mimic at least one pathology of the human ear, such as an eardrum perforation, a middle ear fluid, a cholesteatoma, a tumor, or earwax.

Abstract: A method of orienting a virtual camera for rendering a virtual endoscopy image of a lumen in a biological structure represented by a medical image data set, e.g., a colon. The method comprises selecting a location from which to render an image, determining an initial orientation for the virtual camera relative to the data set for the selected location based on the geometry of the lumen, determining an offset angle between the initial orientation and a bias direction; and orienting the virtual camera in accordance with a rotation from the initial orientation towards the bias direction by a fractional amount of the offset angle which varies according to the initial orientation. The fractional amount may vary according to the offset angle and/or a separation between a predetermined direction in the data set and a view direction of the virtual camera for the initial orientation.

Abstract: The ultrasound training mannequin (100) is a device that provides a realistic medical training device for use by medical personnel, especially those in the field of emergency medicine, to gain experience in applying and analyzing the results of common ultrasound examinations. The mannequin (100) comprises a life-size model of the male torso. The mannequin (100) has a simulated human skin (20) and tissue structure (22) made of a silicone. Internal organs, such as the lungs, heart, liver, kidneys, gall bladder, urinary bladder, and spleen are placed inside the model in their normal occurring relative positions. Heavier organs are modeled with a variable density silicone material to simulate the actual sonic density of these organs. The lungs are modeled with a variable density foam material to simulate the sonic density of actual lungs. The mannequin (100) also includes artificial venous and arterial channels emanating from and terminating at the heart.

Abstract: A residual limb model may be a model of a residual limb. A residual limb model may include a residual limb portion and a bladder complementary in shape to the residual limb portion. A prosthesis donning and doffing training system may include a check socket and a residual limb model complementary in shape to the check socket. A method of training in the care of a residual limb may include providing a residual limb model and training in the care of a residual limb using the residual limb model. A method of training in the donning and doffing of a prosthesis may include providing a prosthesis training system and training in the donning and doffing of a prosthesis using the prosthesis training system.

Abstract: Manikin for the training of medical personnel and the like, comprising electrical circuitry for sensing of input parameters and controlling of output parameters. The manikin comprises a plate comprising metal, for the conduction of heat generated by said electrical circuitry, away from said circuitry. The said plate serves as a structural part, as it is connected, directly or indirectly, to at least one of the group consisting of thighs, pelvis, neck (head), and arms. Furthermore, the plate constitutes at least a part of a Faraday cage surrounding a manikin main board.

Abstract: A method includes receiving data values associated with one of a position and orientation of a simulated scanner relative to an object. Image values are calculated, substantially in real-time, based on the data values. A simulated ultrasound image is rendered in a graphical display based on the image values. The simulated ultrasound image is representative of an interior or a simulated interior of the object on the ultrasound scan plane.

Abstract: An interface device and method for interfacing instruments to a medical procedure simulation system serve to interface peripherals in the form of mock medical instruments to the medical procedure simulation system computer to enable simulation of medical procedures. The interface device includes a housing having a mock bodily region of interest to facilitate insertion of a mock instrument, such as an endoscope tube, into the interface device. The mock bodily region of interest may be pivotable to simulate various patient orientations. The instrument is engaged by a capture mechanism in order to measure rotational and translational motion of the instrument. An actuator is disposed within the interface device to provide force feedback to the instrument. The measured motion is provided to the computer system to reflect instrument motion on the display during the simulation. Alternatively, the interface device may be configured to accommodate instrument assemblies having a plurality of nested instruments (e.g.

Abstract: A patient simulator for training a person on performing a polysomnography includes a mannequin representing a torso and head of a human body made of a rigid material with a skin layer on the surface of the mannequin. The skin layer being made of an artificial skin material simulating the electrical conductivity and electrical impedance of human skin. The patient simulator further includes a signal generator for generating electrical signals simulating biophysiological activity. A plurality of emitter electrodes positioned underneath the skin layer and connected to the signal generator to receive the electrical signals, and transmit the electrical signals through the skin layer. A controller is connected to the signal generator to control the signal generator to generate the electrical signals.

Abstract: A training aid for of a medical procedure where a substance is injected under the skin is disclosed that provides a user with the sensation of “pushing” the substance under the skin to smooth out raised areas. The training apparatus includes an artificial skin area with a raised feature protruding there from that is provided by cam-driven lifters positioned under the artificial skin area. The raised feature simulates the injected substance and may be touched and manipulated by the user.

Abstract: An interface device and method for interfacing instruments to a medical procedure simulation system serve to interface peripherals in the form of mock medical instruments to the medical procedure simulation system computer to enable simulation of medical procedures. The interface device includes a housing having a mock bodily region of interest to facilitate insertion of a mock instrument, such as an endoscope tube, into the interface device. The mock bodily region of interest may be pivotable to simulate various patient orientations. The instrument is engaged by a capture mechanism in order to measure rotational and translational motion of the instrument. An actuator is disposed within the interface device to provide force feedback to the instrument. The measured motion is provided to the computer system to reflect instrument motion on the display during the simulation. Alternatively, the interface device may be configured to accommodate instrument assemblies having a plurality of nested instruments (e.g.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electromechanical pumping system for simulating the beating of heart in a cardiac surgery training environment. A computer-controllable linear actuator is used to control the electromechanical pumping system. In a preferred embodiment, the electromechanical pumping system is linked to a porcine heart. The heart is made to beat by inserting intra-ventricular balloons placed inside the heart and connected to the pumping system. When controlled by the electromechanical pumping system, the porcine heart is able to display normal and abnormal beating rhythms, as well as ventricular fibrillation. In addition, an electronic pressure sensor incorporated into the pumping system can be used to trigger a ventricular fibrillation mode when the porcine heart attached to the pumping system is handled by a trainee surgeon.

Abstract: A system and method of modeling a circulatory system including a regulatory mechanism parameter. In one embodiment, a regulatory mechanism parameter in a lumped parameter model is represented as a logistic function. In another embodiment, the circulatory system model includes a compliant vessel, the model having a parameter representing a change in pressure due to contraction of smooth muscles of a wall of the vessel.

Abstract: A system for simulating a surgical procedure that includes a housing covering an anatomical model. The model is made up of simulated tissue supported on a base assembly that allows pivoting and rotation of the simulated tissue. The simulated tissue includes a portion that represents soft tissue, such as dermal tissue, muscle, connective tissue and the like, and a portion that represents hard tissue, such as osseous tissue. The housing includes apertures through which a surgical instrument may be inserted for simulating a procedure on the simulated tissue. Cannulas may be set within the apertures.

Abstract: A shoulder model and methods of shoulder arthroscopy using the shoulder model. The shoulder model includes an acromioclavicular (AC) joint assembly, a joint capsule assembly, a scapula mount, a shoulder musculature, a skin, and a base. The AC joint assembly is mounted on the scapula mount and the joint assembly is attached to the AC joint assembly and fastened using a screw/nut to form the shoulder assembly. The shoulder assembly is placed in the shoulder musculature and the skin is rolled over the shoulder musculature and zipped in place. The bones of the shoulder assembly are made of foam-cortical shell, the shoulder musculature is made of foam, the soft tissue components are made of thermoplastic elastomers, and the skin is made of vinyl.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a system and method for keeping injection reminders via stuffed doll. A stuffed doll is configured to receive a plurality of needles and a plurality of markers on the entirety of its body. The needles' locations on the stuffed doll may represent reminders of injection sites on the patient's body. The needles may represent past, current, or future injection sites, or any combination thereof. The needles may further comprise different distinctive qualities, such as thickness and changeable day of the week indicators or colors, allowing the needles to represent different injection types or times. Each needle may still further include blank labels on which a patient can record details pertinent to the specific injection instance. The markers' locations on the stuffed doll may represent reminders of future injection sites on the patient's body. The markers may further comprise different distinctive qualities and include blank labels as described with the needles above.

Abstract: Herein are described methods and tools for acquiring accurately co-registered PET and TRUS images, as well as the construction and use of PET-TRUS prostate phantoms. Ultrasound imaging with a transrectal probe provides anatomical detail in the prostate region that can be accurately co-registered with the sensitive functional information from the PET imaging. Imaging the prostate with both PET and transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) will help determine the location of any cancer within the prostate region. This dual-modality imaging should help provide better detection and treatment of prostate cancer. Multi-modality phantoms are also described.

Abstract: A simulator simulates interaction between a surgical tool and biological tissue, providing real time visual and/or haptic feedback. The simulator receives tool input device information representative of a user's movement of a physical tool. The simulator simulates, based on the tool input device information, an interaction between the simulated tool and simulated biological tissue. The simulator uses multiple computational threads, some of which provide their calculations to interrelated threads for use. The simulator displays a visual representation of the simulated interaction between the simulated tool and the simulated biological tissue and provides haptic feedback to the user. The threads may operate asynchronously and have different spatial and/or temporal resolutions. Threads may be selectively activated and deactivated. Threads may move their spatial coverage.

Abstract: A human torso phantom and its construction, wherein the phantom mimics respiratory and cardiac cycles in a human allowing acquisition of medical imaging data under conditions simulating patient cardiac and respiratory motion.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for illuminating and recording an internal cavity of a medical simulator and integrating simulator data is disclosed. An apparatus for illuminating and recording an internal cavity of a medical simulator and integrating simulator data comprising: at least one light source configured for illuminating the internal cavity with light outside of the visible spectrum during an operator session, at least one video camera having a field of vision including at least part of the internal cavity for video recording an operator session; and a synchronizing system receiving and storing the at least one video recording of the at least one video camera and the at least one data output of the medical simulator.

Abstract: A surgical training device, includes a body form, at least two cameras configured to obtain image data of at least one implement located within the body form, and a magnetic tracking system operative to transmit signals, the signals corresponding to position and alignment information of the at least one implement. The surgical training device also includes a computer configured to receive the image data from the at least two cameras, receive the signals from the magnetic tracking system, and generate position and alignment data of the at least one implement from the image data and the signals. A display is operatively coupled to the computer and operative to display at least one image of the at least one implement and a virtual background, the virtual background depicting a portion of a body cavity.

Abstract: A surgical training device includes a body form, an optical tracking system within the body form, and a camera configured to be optically tracked and to obtain images of at least one surgical instrument located within the body form. The surgical training device further includes a computer configured to receive signals from the optical tracking system, and a display operatively coupled to the computer and operative to display the images of at least one surgical instrument and a virtual background, the virtual background depicting a portion of a body cavity, the virtual background displayed from a perspective of the camera configured to be optically tracked.

Abstract: Method for preventing surgical errors comprises: (a) viewing a display having a start indicator and a stop indicator where only one of the start and stop indicators is highlighted; and (b) determining whether to proceed with a surgical procedure based on whether the start indicator or the stop indicator is highlighted. A confirmation board apparatus comprises: (a) an image of a human body that is visibly divided into sections; and (b) a mechanism for visibly highlighting individual sections of the image.

Abstract: An ultrasound simulator to train radiologists and technologists to locate and recognize patent and fused cranial sutures. The model is formed, for example, using specially fabricated heads or from life-sized plastic doll heads. Simulated suture lines are cut in the heads in anatomically correct positions. The typical end-to-end morphology of the sagittal and metopic sutures and the typical beveled appearance of the paired coronal and lambdoid sutures are created by angling the cutting blade. The hypoechoic appearance of patent sutures in ultrasound images is simulated by filling the gaps that were formed by cutting with a hypoechoic material. Fused echoic sutures are simulated by leaving that portion of the doll's head uncut, or by filling the openings with an echoic material. When imaged using ultrasound, the portions cut and filled with a hypoechoic material are readily distinguishable from uncut portions, and from portions cut and filled with an echoic material.

Abstract: The illustrative embodiment is a simulation system for practicing vascular-access procedures without using human subjects. The simulator comprises a data-processing system and a haptics device. The haptics device provides the physical interface at which an end effector, which is representative of a medical instrument (e.g., a needle, catheter, etc.), is manipulated with respect to a haptics-device base to simulate instrument insertion. The data-processing system, by exchanging signals with the haptics device, provides a three-dimensional simulation that includes the resistive forces that a medical practitioner would experience if the simulated procedure were an actual procedure that was being performed on a real anatomy (e.g., human arm, etc.). The simulator displays the ongoing simulation and assesses the performance of its user.

Abstract: The invention discloses the electrical bronze acupuncture statue apparatus that comprises the electrical elements, the sensors and the embedded system. The invention simulates the acupuncture points for practicing the traditional Chinese medicine treatment and provides the virtual results.

Abstract: A clipboard including a board having first and second surfaces, a clip integral with the first surface, and a plurality of recesses formed in the second surface, the recesses are adapted to receive one or more models.

Abstract: The disclosed invention contemplates a device and method related to training medical personnel (i.e., for example, surgeons) to perform endoscopic procedures. The disclosed technology solves two problems currently present in the art of using surgical simulators. The first improvement provides a dynamic training program, rather than a program that is the same for every training run. In one embodiment, the device provides a target array that can change position in three dimensions during the training session. In one embodiment, the target array can also change position at various velocities. Consequently, the present invention provides improved discrimination between evaluating innate skill of hand-eye coordination versus surgical skill.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are synthetic anatomical models that are designed to enable simulated use testing by medical device companies, medical device designers, individual inventors, or any other entity interested in the performance of medical devices. These models are unique in possessing a level of complexity that allows them to be substituted for either a live animal, an animal cadaver, or a human cadaver in the testing of these devices. These models are further characterized by a similarity of geometry, individual component physical properties, and component-to-component interfacial properties with the appropriate target tissue and anatomy.

Abstract: Teaching models that use luminescent paint to paint inscriptions on the surface of the model which can be read by using black light. By use of the model so modified, the model can be used as a teaching tool in an educational instruction method in which the kinesthetic multiple intelligence of the student is enhanced since the student is in control of the timing of the feedback from the model.

Abstract: A phantom comprises at least one first means for generating at least one dipole and at least one second means for actuating the first means in a non-electrical manner.

Abstract: A medical training simulator includes contact-less sensors and corresponding detection objects, configured to enable sensor data collected during a training exercise to be used to evaluate the performance of the training exercise. The simulator includes a simulated anatomical structure, at least one contact-less sensor, and at least one detection object. During a training exercise, a spatial relationship between the contact-less sensor and the detection object produces data for evaluating performance of the training exercise. Either the contact-less sensor or the detection object is embedded in the simulated physiological structure, while the other is included in either a support for the simulated physiological structure, or as part of a tool used during the training exercise. Many types of contact-less sensors can be employed, including capacitance sensors, impedance sensors, inductive sensors, and magnetic sensors.

Abstract: An instructional toy, comprising: a doll having an outside portion and an inside portion, the inside portion removably containing at least one body part; a book having a related shape of the at least one body part being substantially the same size and shape as the at least one body part and indicia on at least one page of the book related to the at least one body part.

Abstract: A phantom for prostate cancer brachytherapy has a prostate tissue phantom shaped like a real prostate gland, a perineal tissue phantom surrounding the prostate tissue phantom, a skin tissue phantom separating the perineal tissue phantom from an outside environment, and an enclosure. The prostate tissue phantom is a polyvinyl alcohol cryogel (PVA-C) having undergone 3-5 freeze-thaw cycles and having 10-20% w/w PVA in a solvent (e.g. water), 4-8% w/w oil and an amount of acoustic scattering particles to ultrasonically distinguish the prostate-tissue phantom from its surroundings. The perineal tissue phantom is a PVA-C having undergone 1-2 freeze-thaw cycles and having 10-20% w/w PVA in a solvent, 4-8% w/w oil and an amount of acoustic scattering particles to ultrasonically distinguish the perineal tissue phantom from its surroundings. The skin tissue phantom is a PVA-C having undergone at least 6 freeze-thaw cycles and having 15-25% w/w PVA in a solvent.

Abstract: A device for determining appropriate injection or testing sites. At least two movable adjacent plates are each provided with holes arranged in a certain system that can be brought in coincidence. A date carrier plate has numbers corresponding to the days of a month arranged in a certain system. A time carrier plate has numbers corresponding to the various times, mostly the hours, or parts of a day. After moving the plates a coincidence of holes in each determines the appropriate date and corresponding time for the optimal needle insertion point for the given date and time. Site determination signs defining a more exact needle insertion point on the various body parts are also provided.

Abstract: Anatomical models representing one or more anatomical structures of a human or non-human animal and related methods for demonstrating, training, promotion and sale of medical, cosmetic and surgical products or procedures. A working device is inserted into the anatomical model and used to perform a simulated procedure, thereby causing an indicator apparatus (e.g., a removable business card) to become perceptibly altered. The indicator apparatus may then be removed and provided a potential user, consumer or purchaser of the medical, surgical or cosmetic product.

Abstract: A medical training apparatus comprising an instrument holder with a medical instrument, a model patient body simulating a patient subject to medical treatment or examination, and an examination table on which the model patient body is placed. The medical training apparatus comprises a posture detection means for detecting the posture of the examination table, a medical instrument status detection means for detecting the working status of the medical instrument, an examination receiving status detection means for detecting the situation of the model patient body in medical treatment or examination, and a model patient body driving means housed in the model patient body.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method, system, method of doing business, and computer program product for providing instruction and device training. More particularly, the invention provides information and training around medical, veterinary and anatomical procedures. The procedures are presented as a multimedia interactive platform to provide improved instruction and training.

Abstract: The invention relates to a simulation device for simulating penetration processes, carried out by a needle- or pin-like instrument or tool, the simulation device comprising: a handle (1), connected to the instrument (2) in a movable manner, the handle (1) being held by an operator, a position determining device (7), which determines the position of the instrument (2) relative to the handle (1) and generates a position signal, a force determining device (6), which determines the force with which the instrument (2) is forced against the body (8) by means of the handle, said force determining device (6) generating a force signal, a controllable actuator for displacement of the instrument (2) relative to the handle (1) and a computing and control unit with a signaling connection to the actuator,; said computing and control unit comprising a memory in which penetration information specific to the body and a computer program are stored and, based on the position and force signals, the actuator is controlled such th

Abstract: A wearable wound simulant including a skin replica having the appearance of a particular region of the human body, examples including but not limited to a leg, arm, torso, or stomach, and a wound disposed along the skin replica is described. The skin replica includes a plurality of bendable layers arranged to replicate the visual and tactile properties of human tissues and at least one tear resistant layer comprised of a fabric material disposed between two bendable layers. The tear resistant layers are less stretchable than the bendable layers so as to prevent the bendable layers from stretching beyond their failure threshold. Design elements of the present invention facilitate the visual, tactile, and functional aspects of a battlefield wound so as to allow for the diagnosis of injuries associated therewith.

Abstract: A surgical simulation and training platform can mimic human physiology to the extent possible, while enabling dynamic pathology and complication introduction to facilitate training and evaluation needs. The platform can include a subject body having an outer surface and defining at least one cavity, with a capture mechanism configured to receive an instrument and mounted to a robotic positioning assembly within the cavity. The system can further include one or more sensors configured to determine the position of at least one instrument or provide data for determining the position, and a processor. The processor can receive data indicating a position of at least one instrument relative to the cavity in a subject body and provide a command to the robotic positioning assembly to adjust the position of the capture mechanism to encounter and engage the instrument during surgical simulation.