Abstract: The blood pressure level in humans is a vital health parameter, yet the vast majority of people do not have a physical feeling for what normal and abnormal blood pressure levels mean in relation to the forces exerted on the heart and blood vessels. A blood pressure simulation apparatus is described which provides human subjects a means to physically feel simulated blood pressure levels through a tactile interface. Both normal and abnormal blood pressure cycles are simulated. Interfacing of the apparatus to an electronic blood pressure monitor is provided.

Abstract: A training device to assist medical personnel in learning and practicing phlebotomy and other intravenous penetration techniques. The device is worn like a glove or a sleeve and possesses a network of rubber tubing which simulates a portion of the human circulatory system. The device may contain multiple sections of tubing in order to allow continued use of the device without need for repair or replacement of the tubing after sustained use.

Abstract: Computer-based system adapted to create a representation of mechanical and flow-mechanical function of a ?V-pump. A mathematical modeling algorithm is used based upon a transforming element adapted to connect different physical domains via a transforming value. The system comprises an upper transforming element (TF1) and a lower transforming element (TF2) each having a flow domain (fd1, fd2) and a mechanical domain (md1, md2), the upper transforming element is provided with a transforming value A1 and the lower transforming element is provided with a transforming value A1+A2, wherein A1 and A2>0. The upper and lower transforming elements are interconnected such that their mechanical domains are connected, said mechanical domains are provided with a control value representing a directional measure (F) arranged to intermittently and simultaneously activate said mechanical domains of the transforming elements. By interconnecting two ?V-pump representations the pumping action of a heart may be simulated.

Abstract: A system, method, and apparatus for testing a non-invasive blood pressure measurement device wherein a blood pressure monitor, a blood pressure cuff, and a blood pressure simulator are pneumatically connected and the blood pressure cuff is inserted into the aperture of an expansion-limiting or cuff volume constraining element. A cuff volume constraining device is made of flexible material having one or more apertures for constraining cuff volume during cuff expansion during blood pressure measurement device testing.

Abstract: A heart model provides a simulative environment for lead implantation and affixation. In one embodiment, removable silicone plugs are provided at appropriate locations so that an inserted lead can be affixed to the plugs with a helical tip. A simulative venous structure is provided that has increased lubricity to facilitate the insertion and manipulation of the lead.

Abstract: An interactive education system is described for teaching patient care to a user. In one example, the system includes a model of a human body, including lungs, a passage in fluid communication with the lungs, and a breathing valve for controlling the flow of fluid through the passage. The system also includes a pneumatic module for delivering pressurized fluid to the fluid passage. A processor may be used to control the breathing valve. A memory is accessible to the processor for storing instructions for execution by the processor, including instructions for manipulating the breathing valve to regulate the flow of pressurized fluid from the pneumatic module to the lungs. The processor may also produce various physiological indicators, including waveforms, a pulse, etc. The indicators may be prerecorded or dynamically generated. An external device may be used to wirelessly control the processor.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for modeling circulation in a living subject. The method includes the steps of developing a model for living subjects in general and correcting the model to substantially conform to the overall cerebral physiology of the living subject. The method further includes the step of calculating a cerebral flow of the living subject based upon the corrected model and a selected cerebral blood flow perturbation.

Abstract: A whole-body mathematical model (10) for simulating intracranial pressure dynamics. In one embodiment, model (10) includes 17 interacting compartments, of which nine lie entirely outside of intracranial vault (14). Compartments (F) and (T) are defined to distinguish ventricular from extraventricular CSF. The vasculature of the intracranial system within cranial vault (14) is also subdivided into five compartments (A, C, P, V, and S, respectively) representing the intracranial arteries, capillaries, choroid plexus, veins, and venous sinus. The body's extracranial systemic vasculature is divided into six compartments (I, J, O, Z, D, and X, respectively) representing the arteries, capillaries, and veins of the central body and the lower body. Compartments (G) and (B) include tissue and the associated interstitial fluid in the intracranial and lower regions.

Abstract: A device is provided for simulating a human skin microclimate and for measuring conditions such as temperature and humidity in the simulated microclimate. The microclimate is formed, for example, with fluids, gases and/or heat in a chamber of the device or between a surface of the device and a material disposed about the surface. In one aspect, a sensor is placed in the chamber to sense the microclimate. Methods of using the device and measuring microclimate conditions are also provided.

Abstract: A system (100) for simulating a fluid flow condition within a fluid carrying body cavity includes an elastically deformable bladder (101) simulating the body cavity and mounted to the body of a patient simulator manikin (3). An inlet tube (102) communicates a pressurised fluid supply (1) with the bladder (101). A solenoid valve (103) enables/disables flow of fluid through the inlet tube (102). The solenoid valve (103) is controlled by a control means (2) based on the simulated fluid flow condition. An inlet flow restrictor (106) restricts flow of fluid through the inlet tube (102). An outlet flow restrictor (105) is associated with an outlet (104) for restricting flow of fluid through the outlet to atmosphere. A simulator is also disclosed comprising a manikin (3) and various fluid flow simulation systems associated with the manikin (3) for simulating a lung respiratory rate, blood pulse rate and blood pressure.

Abstract: A test apparatus provides pulsatile flows that replicate the human cardiovascular system for qualifying implantable cardiovascular devices before implantation in a patient. A pump provides flow pulses to a mock left ventricle, a mock aortic valve, and a mock aorta. A loop from the ventricle to the aorta bypasses the mock aortic valve and affords connection of the test device. The mock aorta comprises elastic tube sections serially connected in progressively diminishing diameters, and interconnected by adjustable flow restrictors. Each elastic tube section shows about 7% to 12% inside-diameter expansion for 100 mm mercury step increase. A designer's choice over the elasticity of the tube sections and a user's control over the flow restrictor(s) allows the user to shape various target waveforms in regards of flowrate and pressure against time as well as the peaks and drop-off forms in addition.

Abstract: Method for the production of a modeling system (1) for aneurysms involving the steps: Local heating of a first hollow body which is suited for conducting liquid and is comprised, at least in one or more partial areas, of a flexible, thermoplastically deformable material. The local heating is effected on at least one of the partial areas until the thermoplastically deformable material softens. The invention also involves subjecting this first hollow body to the action of pressure that is great enough to cause a deformation at the heated location, whereby the size of the deformation is determined by the duration of the pressure applied and/or by the intensity of the pressure applied.

Abstract: A system for simulating a medical procedure performed on a subject, featuring: (a) a simulated organ; (b) a simulated instrument for performing the medical procedure on the simulated organ; (c) a locator for determining a location of the simulated instrument within the simulated organ; and (d) a visual display for displaying images from the medical procedure, such that the images simulate visual data received during the medical procedure as performed on an actual subject, the visual display including: (i) a three-dimensional model of the simulated organ, the model being divided into a plurality of segments; (ii) a loader for selecting at least one of the plurality of segments for display, the at least one of the plurality of segments being selected according to the location of the simulated instrument within the simulated organ; (iii) a controller for selecting each image from the selected segment according to the location of the simulated instrument; and (iv) a displayer for displaying the image according to

Abstract: A cardiac phantom is provided for simulating a dynamic cardiac ventricle. The phantom comprises two concentrically-disposed, fluid-tight, flexible membranes defining a closed space between the walls of the membranes. A pump is operatively connected to the inner membrane for reciprocally delivering a volume of fluid to the inner membrane to inflate and deflate both membranes in simulating systole and diastole of a heart. A medium is disposed within the closed space defined between the walls of the membranes for maintaining a uniform distance between the walls of the membranes during inflation and deflation. The phantom is provided for evaluation of medical imaging systems. A method, computer system and a computer-readable medium are also provided for controlling the phantom.

Abstract: A method and a system to simulate ultrasound images and hence for simulating the evaluation of a subject with such images as a diagnostic tool. For the purpose of simulating ultrasound images, these images may be considered to be planar slices of a given geometry. These slices are generated from the surface geometry of the portion of the subject which would receive the ultrasound waves if the ultrasound diagnostic procedure was actually be performed. Simulating such ultrasound images may therefore be performed by determining such images from surface models, and then rendering those ultrasound images at the desired position. The rendering of such simulated ultrasound images also optionally and preferably includes the simulation of the “grainy” quality of such images.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for microsurgical training using cadaveric anatomy with filling of the vascular system by fluids under pressure to simulate the appearance and function of live surgery. One or more arteries on the specimen of cadaveric anatomy are cannulated and connected to an arterial reservoir having a flexible container holding an arterial fluid simulating the appearance of blood circulating in the arteries of the living organism from which the cadaveric anatomy is derived. Suitable static pressure simulating the arterial pressure appropriate to that of the living organism is applied to the air in an air-tight space surrounding the flexible container in the arterial reservoir. A pulsating machine provides air pulsations to the space surrounding the flexible fluid container to simulate the normal pulsations of the arterial system.

Abstract: An apparatus and associated method for simulating anatomic and physiological responses to medical procedures involving administering regional anesthetic/analgesic agent in real time using a mannequin. Such simulation allows trainees to perform regional anesthesia techniques that closely mimic real world medical procedures before performing procedures on live patients.

Abstract: A system (100) for simulating a fluid flow condition within a fluid carrying body cavity includes an elastically deformable bladder (101) simulating the body cavity and mounted to the body of a patient simulator manikin (3). An inlet tube (102) communicates a pressurised fluid supply (1) with the bladder (101). A solenoid valve (103) enables/disables flow of fluid through the inlet tube (102). The solenoid valve (103) is controlled by a control means (2) based on the simulated fluid flow condition. An inlet flow restrictor (106) restricts flow of fluid through the inlet tube (102). An outlet flow restrictor (105) is associated with an outlet (104) for restricting flow of fluid through the outlet to atmosphere.

Abstract: A playset in which the position of various vehicles or characters will be depicted upon a video screen or monitor. A method of identifying a location is provided in a playset map upon which the vehicles or characters would traverse. Based upon the position of the vehicles or characters, different scenes would be depicted on the video screen or monitor.

Abstract: A method and a system for simulating the minimally invasive medical procedure of urological endoscopy. The system is designed to simulate the actual medical procedure of urological endoscopy as closely as possible by providing both a simulated medical instrument, and tactile and visual feedback as the simulated procedure is performed on the simulated patient. Particularly preferred features include a multi-path solution for virtual navigation in a complex anatomy, the simulation of the effect of the beating heart on the urethra as it crosses the illiac vessel, and the simulated operation of a guidewire within the urethra In addition, the system and method optionally and more preferably incorporate the effect of dynamic contrast injection of dye into the urethra for fluoroscopy. The injection of such dye, and the subsequent visualization of the urological organ system in the presence of the endoscope, must be accurately simulated in terms of accurate visual feedback.

Abstract: A thermal manikin has a closed perforated rigid frame covered by a breathable fabric extending over the frame and forming arms and legs. Water passages and a pump inside the manikin direct water around the manikin to simulate natural blood flow. The manikin is provided with a controller and sensor for measuring conditions inside and outside the manikin that enables simultaneous determination of Clo (thermal resistance of clothing placed on the manikin) and Im (the permeability index of the clothing).

Abstract: An interactive education system is described for teaching patient care to a user. The system comprises a patient simulator, as well as a virtual instrument for use with the patient simulator in performing patient care activities. The systems also includes means for sensing an interaction between the virtual instrument and the simulator, and means for providing feedback to the user regarding the interaction between the virtual instrument and the simulator. In a first embodiment, the simulator and virtual instrument are tangible objects, and in a second embodiment, the simulator and virtual instrument are software-generated objects.

Abstract: A medical simulation apparatus may include a housing, a vessel simulating tube carried by the housing, a liquid reservoir carried by the housing, a pump carried by the housing for circulating the liquid from the liquid reservoir through the vessel simulating tube, and an access port in fluid connection with the vessel simulating tube for receiving an instrument therein. The pump may be a pulsatile pump for providing a pulsed liquid circulation simulating blood flow. Also, the vessel simulating tube may include an elastic material (e.g., silicone) expandable with the pulsed liquid circulation. Furthermore, the vessel simulating tube may include a portion having an enlarged diameter simulating an aneurysm, or it may include a portion having a restriction simulating a stenosis. Alternately, the vessel simulating tube may include a portion simulating an arteriovenous malformation or tumor.

Abstract: A computerized education system with a physiological simulator for interactively teaching patient care to a user is described. The system comprises a computer program for displaying a selection of selectable modules for providing different interactive training sessions, and a virtual stethoscope for use with the simulator in performing patient care, and cooperating with corresponding sensors on the simulator, thus providing feedback to confirm proper use of the virtual stethoscope on the simulator. The system also comprises an interface module for interfacing the sensors with the computer program, the module comprising a processor for receiving signals from the sensors and converting the signals to provide feedback.

Abstract: A legged robot is provided with a plurality of basic motion programs. The legged robot can produce a teaching motion program for performing a series of expressive motions by recognizing and language-processing instructions from a user in the form of voice-input, and extracting and combining at least one basic motion in a time series. More sophisticated and complex teaching programs can be edited by controlling the produced teaching motion programs stored in a database and combining the teaching motion programs with the basic motion programs.

Abstract: Method and apparatuses for simulating life support procedures in real-time using a mannequin. The apparatuses and methods are operable for a number of therapeutic interventions and provide for a number of appropriate simulated physiological and pharmacological responses. Included interventions are chest displacement, the application of gas pressure to the upper airway, inspiratory gas composition, administration of a fluid, or administration of intravenous drugs. These interventions provide a variety of appropriate responses (and misapplication of an intervention by a trainee provides a corresponding appropriate response).

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for training for cardiac surgery using endoscopic techniques are provided. The apparatus comprises a model thorax having an internal cavity and a plurality of ribs, intercostal spaces between the ribs through which an endoscopic instrument can be inserted during use of the model, and a heart located in the internal cavity and removably connected to the model, the heart having a coronary artery on which surgical training can be performed during use of the model. The apparatus also comprises a sternum located on the anterior aspect of the thorax, and at least one internal mammary artery located on a posterior surface of the sternum. The apparatus can also include a fluid system in communication with the heart and providing pressurized fluid to the coronary artery, such that cutting the artery simulates bleeding as the pressurized fluid effuses from the artery.

Abstract: The invention provides materials and methods for modeling human blood vessels. Including panels of anatomically accurate vascular phantoms, such as carotid artery phantoms, comprising a range of stenotic conditions and other geometric variations; methods of making anatomically accurate vascular phantoms using stereolithography with an input data set representation of a natural vascular lumenal surface to construct an anatomically accurate vascular phantom comprising a physical representation of the surface; and methods of using the subject phantoms and panels of phantoms, such as methods of measuring a parameter of fluid flow through a panel of anatomically accurate vascular phantoms comprising a range of stenotic conditions.

Abstract: An optical phantom of a living body includes a multiplicity of phantom layers shaped to the contours of a target part of a living body. A space portion is provided at a prescribed location inside the phantom. Inlet and outlet conduits enable liquid phantom to be supplied to the space portion and removed therefrom. This arrangement enables the space portion to be used to simulate dynamic change of physiological states, and for such changes to be measured optically.

Abstract: A medical model for teaching and demonstrating invasive medical procedures such as angioplasty. The model is a plastic, transparent three-dimensional, anatomically correct representation of at least a portion of the vascular system and in a preferred embodiment would include the aorta, coronary artery, subclavian arteries, pulmonary artery and renal arteries each defining a passageway or lumen. An access port is provided so that actual medical devices, such as a guide and catheter may be inserted to the location simulated blockage. Fluid may also be introduced to realistically simulate in vivo conditions. Simulated heart chambers of similar construction may also be attached to the aortic valve to further enhance the representation of invasive procedures.

Abstract: A portable flow model for simulating ultrasound studies contains an injection point, a pump, a choke, a valve, a study chamber equipped with a study window and another choke that is used as resistance. These individual components are connected to one another in a closed circuit by a tube system.

Abstract: An anatomical simulator system (10) includes a synthetic anatomical torso (12) resting on a base (14). The torso includes an internal cavity (18) and a pneumoperitoneum wall (16). A selected one of a variety of procedure packs (20, 30) is placed inside the cavity for use in training in videoendoscopic surgical techniques. The torso includes a plurality of trocar apertures (22) which permit insertion of videoendoscopic instruments for manipulation, incision, dissection and suturing of synthetic anatomic structure included in the procedure packs. Each procedure pack includes simulated anatomic structures (34,36,38,40) that have a realistic appearance and density, that provide realistic tactile feedback during manipulation and incision, and that are suturable and/or electrocauterizable using endoscopic instruments.

Abstract: A method of making a surgical simulator comprises first and second mouldings which can be assembled together to form a simulation limb. The first moulding is in the form of a replaceable cartridge on which simulation surgical operations moulding can be performed. The second moulding is mounted on a supporting base and includes a cavity within which the first moulding can be located. A housing containing a pump assembly is mounted on the supporting base and the pump assembly is arranged to pump simulation blood through a simulation vein contained within said first moulding.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for injecting and volatilizing a volatile drug in a patient simulator, including a manikin, a gas supply and a drug volatilization device. The drug volatilization device includes a thermal conductor defining a gas propagation cavity, a sintered insert, and a needle accepting cavity. A simulated response to the drug is calculated, and an output device associated with the manikin is actuated to simulate the effect of the drug.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for quantifying the amount of fluid administered to a patient simulator during simulated medical surgery. A fluid administered to a manikin and delivered to a reservoir associated with the manikin. The quantity of fluid administered is determined based on the change of weight of the reservoir. A simulated response to the administered fluid can be computed, based on the determined quantity of fluid administered.

Abstract: A phlebotomy training device including a core member incorporating a network of channels wherein resilient tubing is placed to form artificial veins and arteries. The tubing communicates with a fluid reservoir disposed at a proximal end of the device for maintaining the tubing full of fluid. A membrane covers the device and presents a puncture resistant characteristics similar to that of skin. The device is adapted for attachment to a person's arm so that a student can practice venipuncture techniques on a live subject, including the proper positioning of an actual human arm, without the risks associated with puncturing living tissue.

Abstract: This invention relates to the creation of an animal model which has the circulatory physiology of the fatal human infant condition of transposition of the great arteries (TGA) by surgically altering the normal animal heart, and the surgical correction of this fatal physiology by simultaneously altering the normal animal vasculature. The result of performing these two procedures simultaneously in a normal animal is that the heart chamber that normally pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs (right ventricle) is switched to pump oxygenated blood to the body, and the chamber that normally pumps oxygenated blood to the body (left ventricle) is switched to pump deoxygenated blood to the lungs. Such unusual circulatory connections are present in humans who have the condition known as congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries (corrected TGA).

Abstract: A teaching aid comprises a doll with a realistic, replaceable heart model. The heart model is attached to a pump unit that provides realistic flow of sonographically partially opaque fluid through the heart. The heart model may be selected from a variety of heart models, such as a normal heart or one of numerous congenitally diseased hearts. By using sonographic analysis of the doll, a student of heart diseases or a student of sonography may experience a realistic simulation of sonographic images of actual heart defects.

Abstract: An anatomical simulator system (10) includes a synthetic anatomical torso (12) resting on a base (14). The torso includes an internal cavity (18) and a pneumoperitoneum wall (16). A selected one of a variety of procedure packs (20, 30) is placed inside the cavity for use in training in videoendoscopic surgical techniques. The torso includes a plurality of trocar apertures (22) which permit insertion of videoendoscopic instruments for manipulation, incision, dissection and suturing of synthetic anatomic structure included in the procedure packs. Each procedure pack includes simulated anatomic structures (34,36,38,40) that have a realistic appearance and density, that provide realistic tactile feedback during manipulation and incision, and that are suturable and/or electrocauterizable using endoscopic instruments.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided that is adapted to be used in training surgeons and surgical personnel in surgical techniques and procedures, and more particularly to an apparatus and method for training surgeons and surgical personnel in minimally invasive surgical techniques and procedures in a manner which closely replicates clinical phenomena. The apparatus of the invention includes a frame, a pump, appropriate tubing and a reservoir containing a volume of fluid. Non-living animal tissue is joined to the tubing at the outlet side of the pump and surgical personnel are permitted to conduct surgical techniques thereon.

Abstract: An apparatus simulating blood circulation in the human body which allows sphygmic diagnosis simulation to be performed by measuring simulated arterial pulses along a simulated artery portion which simulates an artery portion leading to either the left or right hand of the blood circulating system of the human body. The simulated artery portion is included in a simulated blood circulating passage formed by a layout of tubes representative of the human circulatory system. Each tube has a circular section of rubber resin made of both silicon and natural rubbers in which the wall thickness of the tube, Young Modulus, tensile strength, dimension, and compliance are predetermined to simulate the human body. Sphygmic diagnosis simulation can be performed by measuring the simulated arterial pulses at three points along of a radial artery portion corresponding to three positions of shun, khan, and shaku of the sunko as in the practice of Oriental medicine.

Abstract: A training apparatus (10) for the practice of puncturing blood vessels includes a model arm and an air-tight, liquid-tight compressible liquid container (19) and a two-way pressure threshold valve for transferring liquid between the container and the model arm. The model arm includes a core (14) of a solid material, a tight-fitting cover (32) of a penetrable material and at least one penetrable tube (31) provided between the core (14) and the cover (32), one end of the tube being connected to the liquid container (19) and the other end being sealed. The liquid container (19) is integrated into the model arm and disposed in such a manner so as to allow it to be compressed by establishing a pressure on a part of the surface of the model arm.

Abstract: A teaching aid for use in explaining the biochemical and/or physiological basis of human body function in health or when suffering from a pathological condition such as diabetes mellitus. The teaching aid comprises means representing the blood stream, organs and cells and a plurality of sets of tokens representing chemical or biochemical substances. The blood stream is represented as substantially linear. The organs and cells are represented as substantially the same size and are positioned in direct communication with the blood stream representing means. The tokens are moved along the blood streams representing means and into and out of the organ and cell representing means to demonstrate the functions of the organs and cells.

Abstract: The present invention provides a doll (10) which is arranged to be fed both liquids and non-liquids or solids. These are received in respective first and second chambers (20, 22). The present invention also provides a chamber pot (54) for a doll (10). Further, the present invention provides a casing (98) for enclosing or enveloping a doll (10) to simulate the womb. The present invention allows for a visual explanation of childbirth and childcare to be given to young children. This may be supplemented by instructions from another source, e.g. an adult or text.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided to serve as a phantom for evaluation of prosthetic valves and cardiac ultrasound procedures, wherein a controlled pulsatile flow of a blood-mimicking fluid is passed through a multi-chambered region into which are mounted mitral and aortic valves and adjustably positionable ultrasound transducers. A low friction, drive which involves very low levels of extraneous vibrational inputs, is provided with adjustment of both the volume flow rate of blood-mimicking fluid moved in each operational pulse with further control provided by relatively easily adjusted screws to selectively regulate the systolic and diastolic times of the pulsatile flow generated by a bellows arrangement. Windows made of silicone elastomer material presenting both tissue-equivalent impedance for ultrasound transmission and tissue-equivalent attenuation of the ultrasound are provided in controlled thickness to permit detailed observation of valvular flow parameters of interest, e.g.

Abstract: Apparatus and method are disclosed for producing ultrasound readings of simulated blood flow through a model left ventricle or larger portion of the human heart, held inside a fluid filled chamber with membrane-covered windows, and through mitral and aortic valves cooperating therewith to provide a simulated human circulation flow free of reverberation artifacts and the like. Adjustable flow of a selected hydraulic fluid into and out of the chamber that also contains a plurality of ultrasound absorbing elements disposed oppositely to the ultrasound viewing windows is utilized to produce ultrasound signals picked up by an ultrasound transducer for processing in any known manner. A range of flow rate and systolic characteristics of a heart are readily simulated, to provide outputs substantially free of reverberations and ultrasound reflections from the inside walls of the chamber as well as the ultrasound absorbing elements.

Abstract: An illusory device for use in conjunction with protective garments, comprising of one or more sheets of fluid impervious material in flatwise registering relationship and being mutually secured in their marginal zones for jointly defining a central chamber, and with there being a liquid of predetermined coloration and composition partially or completely filling the central chamber for exception through the walls of the device. The device is worn by itself or secured to one or more other illusory devices, which is subsequently secured to or placed over the selected protective garment by securing means.

Abstract: Apparatus and method are disclosed for producing ultrasound readings of simulated blood flow through a model left ventricle or larger portion of the human heart, held inside a fluid filled chamber with membrane-covered windows, and through mitral and aortic valves cooperating therewith to provide a simulated human circulation flow free of reverberation artifacts and the like. Adjustable flow of a selected hydraulic fluid into and out of the chamber that also contains a plurality of ultrasound absorbing elements disposed oppositely to the ultrasound viewing windows is utilized to produce ultrasound signals picked up by an ultrasound transducer for processing in any known manner. A range of flow rate and systolic characteristics of a heart are readily simulated, to provide outputs substantially free of reverberations and ultrasound reflections from the inside walls of the chamber as well as the ultrasound absorbing elements.

Abstract: A teaching aid is provided to enable medical students to practice various surgical techniques. The teaching aid comprises a multi-compartment tray, with the various compartments being devoted to teaching one or more distinct surgical techniques. A plurality of the compartments may comprise simulated tissues removably and replaceably mounted therein, such as simulated skin tissue, simulated blood vessels, simulated intestinal tissue and/or simulated tendons or nerves. Other compartments of the teaching aid may comprise hooks about which knot tying techniques may be practiced. Still other compartments may comprise simulated tissues that must be tensioned prior to suturing.

Abstract: A training mannequin which exhibits many of the tactile sensations of a real human body to a student. The mannequin includes an anatomically correct human skeleton including a skull, a jawbone and a spinal column which together define a throat cavity. An anatomically correct larynx and its associated trachea are disposed in the throat cavity. A plastic skin covers the mannequin and a plastic packing material is utilized between the skin covering and the skeleton. An inflatable member is disposed in a chest cavity defined by ribs and the spinal column of the skeleton. The inflatable member substantially fills the chest cavity when inflated. An air pump is in fluid communication with the inflatable member to inflate the inflatable member. A student can insert a sharp instrument, such as a needle, through the skin and into the larynx, or between the ribs and into the inflatable member to deflate the member.