JP2012108528A - Interactive education system for teaching patient care - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a patient simulator, a method, and a system for teaching care.SOLUTION: A respiratory system including a pair of lungs is positioned within a patient body having simulated body portions to simulate a respiratory pattern. A circulatory system is also positioned within the patient body to simulate at least one circulatory parameter of the patient. A patient simulator system also includes a control system and includes a respiratory physiological model for controlling the simulated respiratory pattern and a circulatory physiological model for controlling the at least one circulatory parameter of the circulatory system. The respiratory physiological model adjusts the simulated respiratory pattern of the respiratory system at least partially based on a treatment administered to a patient simulator. The patient simulator is operable without physical connection to an external device. The patient simulator system includes both a maternal simulator and a fetal simulator, and physiological states of the maternal simulator and the fetal simulator are linked with each other.

Description

  This application is a continuation-in-part of US patent application Ser. No. 11 / 538,306, filed Oct. 3, 2006. US patent application Ser. No. 11 / 538,306 is a continuation-in-part of US patent application Ser. No. 10 / 848,991, filed May 19, 2004 and currently US Pat. No. 7,114,954. No. 10 / 848,991 is filed on November 11, 2002 and is a continuation of US patent application Ser. No. 10 / 292,193, now US Pat. No. 6,758,676. It is. US patent application Ser. No. 10 / 292,193 is filed on Oct. 6, 2000 and is a continuation of US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 684,030, currently US Pat. No. 6,503,087. US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 684,030, filed Aug. 17, 2000, is a continuation of US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 640,700, now US Pat. No. 6,527,558. It is an application. US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 640,700 was filed on April 28, 2000 and is now a continuation of US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 560,949, now US Pat. No. 6,443,735. No. 09 / 560,949, filed on Nov. 25, 1998 and now US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 199,599, which is currently US Pat. No. 6,193,519. No. 09 / 199,599, which is a continuation-in-part application, filed on May 8, 1996 and currently US Pat. No. 5,853,292 No. 435 is a continuation application. The entire disclosure of the aforementioned application is incorporated herein by this reference.

  This application is also a continuation-in-part of US patent application Ser. No. 10 / 721,307, filed Nov. 25, 2003 and now US Pat. No. 7,192,284, which is hereby incorporated by reference. No./721,307 is a continuation-in-part of US patent application Ser. No. 10 / 292,193, filed Nov. 11, 2002 and currently US Pat. No. 6,758,676. The entire disclosure of the aforementioned patent is incorporated herein by this reference.

  This application is also a continuation-in-part of US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 640,700, filed Aug. 17, 2000 and now US Pat. No. 6,527,558, which is hereby incorporated by reference. No./640,700 is a continuation-in-part of US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 560,949 filed on Apr. 28, 2000 and is currently US Pat. No. 6,443,735. Application 09 / 560,949 is a continuation-in-part of US Patent Application No. 09 / 199,599, filed on November 25, 1998 and now US Pat. No. 6,193,519, US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 199,599 was filed on May 8, 1996 and is now a continuation of US patent application Ser. No. 08 / 643,435, currently US Pat. No. 5,853,292. Ah . The entire disclosure of the aforementioned application is incorporated herein by this reference.

  Embodiments of the present invention relate to an interactive education system for patient nursing professors, and more particularly, to a system having a virtual instrument that is used in combination with a maternal simulator in performing patient nursing activities.

  While it is desirable to train students on patient care protocols before allowing them to interact with actual patients, textbooks and flashcards lack the significant benefits gained from “practical” practice. Therefore, patient nursing education is often taught using a medical instrument for performing patient care on a simulator such as a human body model. However, one of the disadvantages of such systems is that medical devices are often extremely expensive, so many users can use different types of devices, even at the expense of narrowing the educational experience. It must be reduced. One solution to the above problem is a set of inexpensive, as taught in US Pat. No. 5,853,292, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The use of simulation medical instruments (“virtual” instruments). Another solution is to make the simulator compatible with real medical devices.

  Another challenge in patient nursing education is that the patient simulator used to teach the user is passive. For example, in a delivery simulation, the user places the simulated fetus in the simulated maternal pelvis, lowers it via the birth canal, delivers the fetal head, rotates the fetus approximately 90 °, and rotates the shoulder. It needs to be delivered and finally the fetus extracted (which will be referred to as “newborn” at this point). While imitating a series of events in actual labor, the user physically controls the fetus and lacks authenticity, making it difficult to perceive the difficulty of performing patient care. In actual delivery, the fetus is inaccessible and most movement is hidden and invisible, and prior art systems address the most difficult situation of providing patient care during childbirth. Absent. In addition, prior art systems do not simulate cervical dilatation as the fetus descends through the birth canal, so students can evaluate cervical dilation to assess the stage of labor and to assess progress in labor. Unable to create a time extension chart ("delivery record").

  Yet another challenge in patient care education is that the system is too bulky and often requires too many wiring connections to other components, making it difficult to move the simulator to other locations. Even in a system called “portable”, it is often necessary to move many connecting parts such as a compressor and a power supply in order to make the simulator function completely. The solution to this problem is to make a fully functional and independent simulator that communicates wirelessly with external devices. Therefore, there is a need for a system for an interactive education system that is used to conduct patient nursing training sessions, including more realistic simulation patients.

  Embodiments of the present invention provide an interactive teaching system for patient nursing professors for users. The system includes a maternal simulator, a fetal simulator (designed to support both use with the maternal simulator and separate use from the maternal simulator), and a neonatal simulator (fetal simulator for postpartum simulation). Designed to replace). In some embodiments, the system has a simulator that is completely tetherless. That is, the simulator functions without the need for wiring connection to other external devices, devices, and power sources. In such an embodiment, the simulator can communicate with other devices and instruments wirelessly.

  In some embodiments, a newborn simulator for teaching patient care is provided. The simulator includes a body having one or more simulated body portions that are sized to simulate a newborn. The head portion is movably connected to a part of the main body. The simulated heart and lung are positioned at least partially within the body. The simulator is operable to provide simulated heartbeat and breathing patterns. Further, the simulator can operate without being physically connected to an external device.

  In some embodiments, a method for teaching patient care is provided. The method includes providing a medical simulator that includes a model of at least a portion of a human body. The simulator is configured to execute a simulated medical scenario. The method further includes defining a plurality of palette items, each of the plurality of palette items being associated with a physiological state of the simulator, and a series of steps Defining at least one scenario that includes linked palette items. The method further includes selecting a scenario to be executed by the simulator, communicating the selected scenario to the simulator, and executing the selected scenario using the simulator. .

  In some embodiments, a patient simulator for teaching patient care is provided. The simulator includes a patient body having one or more simulated body portions and a pair of bladders positioned within the patient body to simulate the patient's lungs. A compressor is positioned within the patient body and communicates with the bladder to simulate a breathing pattern by selectively supplying air to the bladder. A master module is also positioned within the patient body and configured to communicate with an external control system. The breathing module system is positioned within the patient body and spaced from the master module. The breathing module system controls the breathing pattern of the patient simulator by controlling the supply of air to and from the bladder. The patient simulator is operable without being physically connected to an external device.

  In some embodiments, a patient simulator for teaching patient care is provided. The simulator includes a patient body that simulates at least a portion of the patient's anatomy. The master module is positioned within the patient body. The master module is configured to communicate with an external control system. In connection with the foregoing, the master module receives a simulation command from the external control system and is positioned within the patient body, but the simulation command is sent to a plurality of task modules spaced from the master module. Configured to relay. The simulator further includes a plurality of task modules configured to execute simulation commands received from the master module.

  In some embodiments, an eye assembly for use in a patient simulator is provided. The eye assembly includes an iris diaphragm having a movable inner portion that defines an opening. The inner portion of the iris diaphragm is radially movable from a first position where the aperture has a first diameter to a second position where the aperture has a second diameter greater than the first diameter. The iris diaphragm is configured for use with a simulated eye. The eye assembly further includes an expansion actuator in communication with the inner portion of the iris diaphragm, thereby selectively moving the inner portion between a first position and a second position to expand the eye. To simulate.

  In some embodiments, a patient simulator system for teaching patient care is provided. The system includes a patient simulator. The patient simulator includes a patient body having one or more simulated body portions. The respiratory system is positioned within the patient body. The respiratory system includes a pair of lungs and is configured to simulate a patient's respiratory pattern. A circulatory system is also positioned within the patient body. The circulatory system is configured to simulate at least one circulatory parameter of the patient. The system further includes a control system in communication with the patient simulator. The control system includes a respiratory physiology model that controls a simulated respiratory pattern of the respiratory system and a circulatory physiology model that controls at least one circulatory parameter of the circulatory system. The respiratory physiology model is configured to adjust a simulated respiratory pattern of the respiratory system based at least in part on a treatment given to the patient simulator by a user.

  In some embodiments, a patient simulator system for teaching patient care is provided. The system includes a maternal simulator having one or more simulated body portions, a fetal simulator positioned within the maternal simulator, and a control system in communication with the maternal simulator and the fetal simulator. The control system is configured to control simulated physical parameters of the maternal simulator and the fetal simulator. In this regard, the fetal simulator parameters are based at least in part on the maternal simulator parameters.

FIG. 1a is a schematic diagram of one embodiment illustrating an interactive education system. FIG. 1 b is a schematic diagram of an interactive education system according to another embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the interaction between the virtual instrument and the patient simulator. FIG. 3a is a cross-sectional perspective view of a virtual instrument. FIG. 3b is a cross-sectional perspective view of the sensor. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one embodiment illustrating a patient simulator. FIG. 5a is a perspective view of the patient simulator of FIG. 4 with a cover attached. FIG. 5b is a top view of the control box. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the trunk of the patient simulator of FIG. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the patient simulator of FIG. 6 with the fetal portion removed. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the expandable cervix of the patient simulator. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the outside of the patient simulator. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a patient simulator as a newborn. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of the usage illustrating the system of the present invention. 12-16 are screen display diagrams generated by a program according to one embodiment of the system of the present invention. 12-16 are screen display diagrams generated by a program according to one embodiment of the system of the present invention. 12-16 are screen display diagrams generated by a program according to one embodiment of the system of the present invention. 12-16 are screen display diagrams generated by a program according to one embodiment of the system of the present invention. 12-16 are screen display diagrams generated by a program according to one embodiment of the system of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an embodiment as a newborn of a patient simulator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 18 is a perspective view of various modules for use with the newborn simulator of FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a cross section of the neonatal simulator of FIG. FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram of the air supply system of the newborn simulator of FIG. FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a cross-section of a silencer used in combination with the air supply system of FIG. FIG. 22 is a screen display diagram generated by a program according to one embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. 23 is a simulated vital signs output display diagram of the neonatal simulator of FIG. 17 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 24 is a front view of a mechanism for securing a fetal / newborn simulator to a maternal simulator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. 25 is an exploded perspective view of the mechanism of FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a portion of the mechanism of FIG. FIG. 27 is a perspective view of another portion of the mechanism of FIG. FIG. 28 is a side view of a system that selectively rotates the fetal / neonatal simulator during a birth simulation. 1 is a schematic diagram of a patient simulator system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a patient simulator system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a patient simulator system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. 1 is a schematic diagram of a master module used in a patient simulator system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a communication module used in a patient simulator system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a communication module used in a patient simulator system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. 1 is a schematic diagram of an air module used in a patient simulator system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an audio module used in a patient simulator system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a sensing module used in a patient simulator system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a sensing driver module used in a patient simulator system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 2 is a schematic diagram of an ECG module used in a patient simulator system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a pacemaker / defibrillation module used in a patient simulator system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a motor driver module used in a patient simulator system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an intubation module used in a patient simulator system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an inflation / deflation module used in a patient simulator system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. 1 is a schematic diagram of a patient simulator system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a patient simulator system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. 1 is a front view of an eye assembly used in a patient simulator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. FIG. 47 is a front view of an iris diaphragm of the eye assembly of FIG. 46 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 47 is a bottom view of the eye assembly of FIG. 46. FIG. 47 is a schematic view of the blink assembly of the eye assembly of FIG. 46. FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view of a delivery mechanism used in a patient simulator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. (No explanation)

  Referring to FIG. 1a, reference numeral 10 generally indicates an interactive education system for teaching a patient care protocol to a user. System 10 includes a set of virtual instruments 12 used to simulate medical instruments and a simulator 14 used to simulate at least one patient receiving patient care activities from a user. The virtual instrument 12 is a tangible object that looks, feels and operates like a real medical device in connection with the simulator 14. The simulator 14 can be of various forms, including an adult-sized mannequin that is fully articulated, a fetus, a newborn, a child, an adolescent, or a portion of a mannequin such as an arm, trunk, head, or pelvis. It should be understood as containing.

  Patient care activities received by the simulator 14 from the user are detected in the manner described below, and the system 10 provides feedback to the user in response to the activities. It should be understood that feedback includes auditory, visual or tactile responses. The computer 15 having the program 15a is selectively connected to the system 10 for reasons described later.

  Referring to FIG. 1b, the system 10 'includes a computer 15 and a program 15a, where a set of virtual instruments 12' generated by software and a simulator 14 'generated by software are provided. Thus, patient care activities performed by the user include manipulating the icons associated with the selected virtual instrument 12 'generated by the software to provide patient care to the simulator 14' generated by the software. In this embodiment, the program 15 monitors the user's activity using prior art means such as mouse clicks and voice action software, as described below, and provides feedback in response thereto.

  Returning to FIG. 1a, the system 10 further includes a communications interface module ("CIM") 16, which receives operating power from a prior art power supply 18 and a microcontroller ("PIC"). 20 is included. Microcontrollers are available from Microchip Technology, Inc. (Available from various vendors such as Chandler, Arizona, USA) and customize it. As described below, the PIC 20 is programmed to receive an input signal from a user activity and to perform a specific reaction to provide feedback to the user. For example, to provide auditory feedback, the CIM 16 further acts on the speaker 24 in response to the PIC 20 to generate sound patient sounds such as heart, lungs, blood pressure (Korotkoff method), intestines, fetuses, etc. It has a chip 22. The CIM 16 includes a controller 26 for adjusting the volume of the speaker 24.

  Alternatively, CIM 16 may be connected to computer 15 and program 15a depending on the complexity of the desired feedback. In one example of feedback, the program 15a can be used to provide a large library of, for example, ultrasound cross-sectional views and fetal asphyxia monitor traces. The feedback may be a body sound generated by the program 15a and played from a computer speaker.

  The CIM 16 has a plurality of ports (collectively referred to as 28) that receive input signals generated by the interaction between the virtual instrument 12 and the sensor 30 on the simulator 14 due to the user's patient care activities. It should be understood that there may be more than one PIC 20 and more than one CIM 16 to control the input signal generated in this way.

  The virtual instrument 12 may be a patient care device such as at least one intravenous drip (IV) needle, an endotracheal (ET) tube, an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) monitor, blood pressure (such as shown in FIG. Blood pressure (BP) measurement pressure band, pulse oximeter band, temporary external pacer, automatic external defibrillator (AED), manual defibrillator, ultrasonic light pen, virtual auscultation Instrument, thermometer, and fetal asphyxia monitor (above, 12a-l each). Such a virtual instrument looks and operates like a real medical device. Of course, the use of relatively inexpensive medical devices such as conventional stethoscopes, vacuum extractors, catheters, trays, intravenous drip (IV) stands, and other virtual instruments are also envisaged.

  Referring to FIG. 2, the infusion needle 12a has a selectable group of specific medications and medication formulations, and in one embodiment, dispenses medications controlled by program 15a to the simulator 14. It is part of a medicine tray with a set of labeled syringes for. The ET tube 12b is used for airway management of a simulated patient and is placed in the trachea of the simulator 14. The EKG monitor 12c has a 3, 5, or 12 guidance system with a real-time trace monitor and R-wave sound wave markers, and a plurality of color coded patches for connection to the body of the simulator 14. A pressure band 12d for measuring blood pressure (BP) is attached to the simulator 14, for example, around the arm. The pulse densitometer fingertip band 12e is attached to the simulator 14, for example, around the finger. Temporary external pacer 12f has a plurality of front and rear pacer pads for attachment to the body of simulator 14. The pacer 12f has a controller for pacer speed and current and displays rhythm pacing, cap time, and loss of cap time, all of which are controlled by the program 15a. The automatic external defibrillator (AED) 12g has a plurality of AED pads for cusps such as the heart and sternum for attaching to the body of the simulator 14. When a shock button generated by software controlled by program 15a is selected, system 10 simulates a defibrillation shock with the resulting conditions controlled by program 15a. The manual defibrillator 12 h has a plurality of defibrillator bars (paddles) for the heart apex and sternum for contacting the body of the simulator 14. By selecting a shock button generated by software, or by using a dual shock button coupled to a manual defibrillator 12h, the system 10 can be removed according to the resulting conditions controlled by the program 15a. Simulate fibrillation shock.

  With continued reference to FIG. 2, the ultrasonic light pen (ultrasonic wand) 12i interacts with the simulator 14, and when the wand 30i is brought within a predetermined neighborhood of a predetermined anatomical region of the simulator, the CIM 16 Detecting the action, program 15a provides an ultrasound image and / or an ultrasound cross-sectional view taken from a library of acoustic waves. The program 15a can select between a normal sectional view and an abnormal sectional view so that the user interprets the sectional view and responds accordingly. The virtual stethoscope 12j interacts with the simulator 14, and when the stethoscope 12j is brought within a predetermined neighborhood of the predetermined anatomical region of the simulator, the CIM 16, as described below in FIGS. Detect and provide feedback to the user. The thermometer 12k interacts with the simulator 14, and when the thermometer 12k is brought within a predetermined neighborhood of the predetermined anatomical region of the simulator, the CIM 16 detects this interaction and the program 15a provides a temperature reading. . A fetal asphyxia monitor 12l (papameter) is attached to a portion of the simulator 14, so that the program 15a provides a simulated fetal heart rate.

  Each instrument has a corresponding sensor 30a-l as indicated generally by line 36. Unless otherwise noted, line 36 is schematic and the virtual instrument 12 and sensor 30 are functionally interconnected to provide the interaction created by the user's patient care activities, the interaction being It is merely illustrative of being reported as an input signal to the CIM 16. It should be understood that it is contemplated that such physical lines be shared between the instrument 12 and the sensor 30.

  The interaction between the virtual instrument 12 and the sensor 30 is electrical, optical, pressure differential, tactile, temperature controlled, or wireless. Generally speaking, an electrical interaction (which also provides the input signal) can be generated through a virtual instrument 12 having a sensor 30 with one node and another node, both of which are It is physically connected to the CIM 16. Alternatively, it is connected to a virtual instrument having two nodes formed from a conductive material and a sensor or vice versa, and only one of them is physically connected to the CIM 16. For example, the infusion needle 12a corresponds to a portion of the simulator 14 that can accept a drug, such as the forearm area of the arm, which has an appropriate thickness and an acute angle (eg, 20 °) where the infusion needle 12a is small. A sensor 30a having an insulator sandwiched between two layers of conductive material having a woven density that can penetrate the fabric. The conductive layer of sensor 30a is electrically connected to CIM 16 via line 36a ', and if drip needle 12a correctly passes through the two conductive layers simulating intubation of simulator 14 into the blood vessel, the circuit Is completed between the layers and is detected by the CIM 16.

  As another example of how to detect the interaction, the ET tube 12b is used for simulated patient airway management, and the simulator 14 accepts the head, eyes, nose, mouth, and normal airway appendages. It has a realistic airway that can be adjusted, and the airway placement is adjustable, displaying a large tongue, a blocked pharynx, or a closed vocal cord, increasing the difficulty of the patient's nursing activities. In order to ensure correct placement in the trachea of the simulator 14, an optical sensor 30b is provided on the tracheal wall of the simulator 14 and is connected to the CIM 16 through a line 36b '. Correct placement of the ET tube 12b in the trachea is confirmed when the tip of the ET tube blocks the light beam of the optical sensor 30b. Sensor 30b can also be used to determine whether fluid has passed.

  Virtual stethoscope 12j provides an example of a wireless method of sensing interactions. At least one sensor 30j is provided at the anatomical site of the simulator 14, where specific heart sounds, lung (containing airway) sounds, Korotkoff sounds, fetal sounds, or other sounds are usually present. I can hear you. The sensor 30j provides at least one signal identified by the stethoscope 12j, thereby causing the integrated acoustic circuit to play a sound suitable for the anatomical position of the sensor on the simulator 14 to the user. Instruct. It should be understood that the acoustic circuit has a library that stores body sounds corresponding to the location of the selected sensor 30j, and sensor 30j illustrates any number of similar sensors.

  Referring to FIG. 3a, in one embodiment, the stethoscope 12j looks like a normal stethoscope and has earpieces 50a-b for listening to sound and connected to a bifurcated ear canal 52. 51a-b. Similarly, the stethoscope further includes a bell tube 54 and a bell 56, preferably made of a non-ferrous material. However, unlike a conventional stethoscope, an electronic control box 58 is placed between the ear canal 52 and the bell canal 54. It should be understood that the control box 58 is a properly created CIM 16 and is physically incorporated into the virtual stethoscope 12j to simplify the system 10. A jack 64 is provided in the control box 58 for output to an external speaker (not shown) so that other users can hear the sound heard on the earpieces 50a-b. This not only increases the number of users benefiting from patient care activities, but also allows the instructor to test the user's capabilities and modify the user's skills if necessary. Control box 58 provides a small power source 66, such as a battery, capture circuit 68, to direct a small speaker 72, such as that available from ADDAX Sound Company (Northbrook, Illinois, USA) to play a predetermined sound. , And acoustic circuit 70 (see copending US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 640,700, filed Aug. 17, 2000 for circuit diagrams). The speaker 72 is disposed in the earpiece 50 a and connected to the control box 58 via the wire 72 a so that the user can hear the sound produced by the acoustic circuit 70. It will be appreciated that a second, substantially identical speaker may be provided on the opposite earpiece 50b and connected to the control box 58. In an alternative embodiment, the speaker 72 may be placed in the control box 58 so that sound is transmitted to the earpiece via a conventional ear canal. The acoustic circuit 70 is also connected to the jack 64 so that it can be connected to an external speaker for the reasons described above.

  A switch 74 having multiple settings is arranged for switching between a set of sounds, for example, a typical set of normal and abnormal sounds that can be heard in adults, newborns, and fetuses. Radio frequency (RF) signal acquisition coil 76, e.g. C. Davis Co. What is available from (Arizona City, Arizona) is located inside the bell 56 for transmitting and capturing RF signals, as described below. The capture coil 76 includes a copper wire coil and a circuit element having an associated wire 76 a attached to the electronic control device 58. A resin disk 78 is disposed between the capture coil 76 and the bell 56 to reduce noise from the bell 56.

  In another embodiment, the sound is played by a speaker (not shown) located within the mannequin so that the sound can be heard without using a real or virtual stethoscope. In yet another embodiment, the sound is reproduced by a speaker (not shown) located within the mannequin so that the sound can be heard using a real stethoscope.

  Referring to FIG. 3b, a sensor 30j is placed under the skin 14b of the simulator 14 so as to avoid visual exposure by the user. Also, anatomical sites, such as the intercostal space, should be palpated to confirm location, so that sensor 30j has minimal thickness to avoid intentional or accidental exposure. convenient. In an alternative embodiment, sensor 30j may be attached to a lid (not shown) that is substantially similar to skin 14b, which can be placed over other simulators or models of the patient, Is changed so that it can be used together with the stethoscope 12j.

  The sensor 30j has a radio frequency ID tag 80, which is described in, for example, Microchip Technology, Inc. (Chandler, Arizona, USA) (part number MCRF200-I / 3C00A), but also to generate a unique signal useful for identifying a particular sensor 30j, this is also known from Microchip Technology, Inc. May be programmed using "Developer's Tools" sold by Coil 82, e.g. C. Davis Co. What is available from (Arizona City, Arizona) is operably connected to the tag 80. The tag 80 and the coil 82 are, for example, M.M. C. Davis Co. It is embedded in a room temperature vulcanizing (RTV) embedding material 84, i.e., silicon rubber, such as that available from Arizona City, Arizona, to prevent damage. Once embedded, the tag 80 and coil 82 collectively form a COB module 86 that outputs a signal having a unique frequency sequence when a response command signal is issued.

  In operation, the COB module 86 can actively transmit the frequency, but preferably the COB module is passive, i.e., when a response command signal is issued by the capture coil 76 during the stethoscope bell 56. Should only work. In the best embodiment of the invention, the acquisition coil 76 carries a carrier signal, such as an excitation frequency of 125 kHz, which means that the bell 56 is within a predetermined vicinity of the COB module 86, ie the acquisition. Received by COB module 86 if brought within distance. The capture distance of the bell 56 and thus the capture coil 76 to the COB module 86 is determined by the signal strength to noise (S / N) ratio of the carrier signal. Thus, adjustment of the S / N ratio of the carrier signal provides a means for controlling the stethoscope bell 56, and hence the COB module 86, with the precision that the user must place with respect to the anatomical position of the sensor 30j. The precise position of the bell 56 on the simulator 14 by the user is rewarded by feedback in the form of an appropriate body sound. Usually, the S / N ratio is set to require that the bell 56 be brought within about 1.5-2 cm of the COB module 86 of the sensor 30j.

  In response to receiving a sufficiently strong carrier signal, the COB module 86 may be used in a process conventionally known as frequency shift keying (FSK), although other keying methods may be used. For this purpose, a series of two labeling frequencies are transmitted. A capture coil 76 in the stethoscope bell 56 receives the transmitted frequency and relays the signal to the capture circuit 68, which inspects the identity of the sensor 30j. Since the anatomical position of each sensor 30j is known to the programmer, an appropriate body sound coupled to each sensor is selected and the acoustic circuit 70 is accessible. Thus, by checking the sensor 30j, the capture circuit 68 instructs the acoustic circuit 70 to produce a suitable body sound for the anatomical position of the COB module 86, which is placed in the earpiece 50a. The user can hear through the speaker 72. It will be appreciated that a greater number of sensors 30j may be added to the simulator 14 or each sensor may correspond to one or more sounds to allow the user to hear a wider selection range of sounds. As described above, the switch 74 has five different setting states and has means for switching the acoustic circuit 70 between the five types of sound groups. Therefore, the number of switch setting states corresponds to the number of sounds that can be produced by a single sensor, that is, with 13 sensor and 5 switch setting states, the user can hear normal and abnormal sounds. It will be appreciated that sounds specific to up to 65 positions including the example can be heard.

  The capture coil and COB module described above include ECG monitor 12c guidance, paddle or probe ("connector"), temporary external pacer 12f, automatic external defibrillator (AED) 12g, manual defibrillator 12h, It will be appreciated that the ultrasonic wand 12i and fetal asphyxia monitor 12l can be modified for use. If desired, the connectors may be glued to temporarily hold them in place on the patient simulator. Interaction between the instrument connector and the sensor 30 is sensed by the CIM 16 to confirm correct placement. The arrangement that the sensor 30 is hidden under the skin of the patient simulator further resembles an actual patient and will try out the nursing skills of the user's patient.

  The simulator 14 is designed to represent a patient and receive treatment, so the simulator 14 can take a variety of shapes, such as those in a portion of the simulated patient, such as the torso and pelvis. It should be understood that it includes a fully articulated adult-sized obstetric simulator, a rounded fetus, an articulated fetus, a multiple fetus, or a newborn, along with the area.

  With reference to FIGS. 4 and 5a, in an exemplary embodiment, the simulator 14 includes a maternal simulator 300 that gives birth to a child and a removable connected fetal simulator 302. The maternal simulator 300 has a head 304 having hair 306, eyes 308 a-b, a nose 310, and a mouth 312. The head assembly has a near real airway (not shown) that can accept conventional airway appendages. A sensor, generally designated 30 (FIG. 1a), is placed on the maternal simulator's skin (represented with spots) and / or beneath the skin (represented in the model). May be. It should be understood that in one embodiment of the maternal simulator (not shown), the sensor is not connected to the simulator. A line 36 protrudes from the fuselage 316 to provide an electrical, pneumatic, or fluid connection, and to connect the sensor 30 to the CIM 16 as needed.

  In another embodiment, the maternal simulator 300 is tetherless. In other words, this mother simulator functions without having to be connected to devices other than the simulator by wiring or tubes, and therefore there is no line 36, 325a, and 326b extending from the body portion 316. Rather, the maternal simulator is independent. As such, the maternal simulator 300 can include a built-in power source such as a rechargeable battery, and all pneumatic and fluid connections are connected to a compressor or other device within the corresponding maternal simulator 300. Since the mother simulator is independent, it is not only portable but can also be used during transport between different locations. Furthermore, in such an embodiment, the maternal simulator 300 may communicate with other devices such as the CIM 16 by wireless communication. Therefore, the entire simulator system 14 can function to the limit of wireless communication. Further, in some embodiments, the maternal simulator 300 is wirelessly connected to a computer or network system, which in turn connects to the CIM 16 via a wired or wireless network to substantially reduce the functional distance of the maternal simulator. Make it infinite. Although only the maternal simulator has been described here, the fetal and neonatal simulators described in more detail below are also tetherless in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the simulator is configured for use in both tetherless and tethered states. In some embodiments, the simulator is fully functional when used tetherless (ie, the simulator has the same functionality in both tethered and tetherless states).

  A pair of arms 318 a and 318 b are connected to the body portion 316. At least one arm has an infusion receptacle (not shown) that can accept a drug, and sensor 30a may be placed in the receptacle to ascertain whether infusion has begun. Similarly, the arm may have a sensor 30d for auscultation of Korotkoff sounds as well as means for measuring blood pressure. The pelvic region 320 of the torso 316 receives a pair of legs 322a-b.

  Referring to FIG. 5a, the cover 324 can be attached to the body 316 via a plurality of snaps 324a, although releasable coupling means such as hooks or annular fasteners can be used. Cover 324 holds sensor 30 and cooperates with stethoscope 12j or a conventional stethoscope to cooperate with ultrasound wand 12i, fetal asphyxia monitor 12l, and stethoscope 12j or alternatively at least one small speaker. Enables simulation of detected fetal heart sounds. In one embodiment, a cover 324 surrounds an open cell foam (not shown) connected to the vacuum generating means. The generation of a vacuum shrinks the bubble and makes it feel harder, which simulates the contraction of the uterus by the maternal simulator 300. Alternatively, the cover 324 may hold an air bladder and a connection line (not shown) for pressurizing the cover, thereby making it feel stiffer. In yet another embodiment, the cover has a plurality of flexible tubes (not shown) that extend across the torso. Hardness is determined by the air pressure in the tube. Adjusting the air pressure changes the hardness. It should be understood that different levels of hardness can be created to simulate different levels of shrinkage strength, eg, mild, moderate, and strong shrinkage. If connected with CIM 16 and program 15a, the contractions are regularly spaced and the maternal uterine pressure can be displayed by the program as described with reference to FIG.

  Returning to FIG. 4, the fetal simulator 302 has an umbilical cord 302a and a placenta 302b and is drawn to occupy a position on a removable stage 325 located inside the maternal simulator. The removable stage 325 has a sac (not shown), a line 325a, and a sphere 325b. When the sphere 325b is used to pump air into the sac, the stage 325, and thus the fetal simulator 302, moves up slightly. When covered by the cover 324 (FIG. 5a), when the stage 325 is raised, the user can palpate the fetal simulator 302 through the cover to evaluate the position and perform a Leopold operation. In another embodiment, the sphere 325b has been replaced with an alternative pump, such as an electrically powered pneumatic pump. The electric pump may be remotely controlled by a computer or other device.

  The birthing device 326 is disposed inside the body portion 316 as described later. The cover 324 hides the fetal simulator 302 and the birthing device 326 of the simulator from view. Therefore, the child's childbirth process is simulated more accurately and the user's therapeutic ability is tested. When the stage 325 is removed, the childbirth instrument 326 is connected by a manual crank (not shown) or via a line 326b with control means for turning the motor on and off and determining the operating speed. It can be operated by a motor 326a.

  In the first embodiment, the software of the program 15a controls the birthing device 326 as described below with respect to FIG. In another embodiment, the control means is control box 328 and line 330 connecting control box 328 to CIM 16. Referring to FIG. 5b, the control boxes 328 each have a controller 328a-d for turning the simulator 14 on and off, stopping and resuming childbirth, determining the delivery rate and setting the fetal heart rate. is doing.

  Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the torso 316 of the mother simulator 300 is illustrated with the cover 324 removed to reveal the fetal simulator 302. The fetal simulator 302 is provided in the body cavity 333 of the maternal simulator 300, and has a head 334 and an attached torso 336 together with arms 338a-b and legs 340a-b attached to the torso. The head 334 is soft and can be aspirated and delivered, and has a mouth and nose that the user can aspirate.

  In connection with the foregoing, in some embodiments, the fetal simulator 302 is a force sensor (located on the neck, shoulders, and hips) to monitor the amount of force applied to the fetal simulator 302 during delivery. (Not shown). Pulling the head 334 generates a signal from the neck sensor. The amount of force is relayed to the user and / or instructor via the user interface. The user interface includes graphic displays and audible signals. For example, the user interface may generate a bar graph that displays the amount of force applied, and the user interface may beep or otherwise when the force exceeds a predetermined threshold. The alarm sound may be generated to prompt the user to reduce the applied force or to use a different delivery method. In one embodiment, the maximum force threshold is about 40 force pounds. In one embodiment, the desired force range is about 17-20 force pounds. Abnormal shoulder delivery is a potentially fatal condition where the fetal shoulder is caught behind the maternal pubic bone. Excessive force can cause cerebral plexus in the fetus and even Erb's palsy. To simulate this potentially fatal condition, the force applied to the shoulder is monitored by including shoulder sensors on the left and right shoulders of the fetal simulator 302. Finally, because of various situations such as pelvic transvaginal delivery, the legs 340a-b may be grasped and removed from the vagina. The hip joint sensor plays a role of monitoring the force applied to the fetal simulator 302 in such a state. In some embodiments, sensor 30 communicates with an output device operable to provide an output signal indicative of a measurement value that a particular sensor is intended to monitor. The output device can output an electrical signal, a wireless signal, or other suitable output signal.

  The umbilical cord and placenta 302a-b (FIG. 4) have been removed to simplify the figure, but the placenta 302b (FIG. 4) can be in any number of common directions, eg, normal bottom position, low It should be understood that it can be attached to the body cavity 333 by a conventional releasable fastener provided in position or in the placenta previa. Similarly, the umbilical cord 302a (FIG. 4) can be presented to mimic a variety of complex situations and accommodates a connection line to the fetal simulator 302 so that the umbilical pulse can be felt by the user, Alternatively, current can be transmitted to fetal simulator 302 if necessary.

  A receiving portion 342 is provided in the fetal simulator 302 so that the birthing device 326 can hold the fetal simulator. Similar to the receiving part 342, other receiving parts are intended for various parts of the fetal simulator 302 for simulation of pelvic position birth, and the fetal simulator 302 is articulated. Delivery can be simulated, for example, pelvic delivery such as complete, unambiguous, and inverse.

  The birthing device 326 has a protrusion 344 of a piston portion 346 that holds the fetal simulator 302 in cooperation with the receiving portion 342 of the fetal simulator 302. In some embodiments, the receiver 342 and the projection 344 allow the fetal simulator 302 to selectively engage the maternal simulator 300 and be released from the maternal simulator 300. Yes. In the depicted embodiment, the piston portion 346 is driven by a drive system that includes a small electric motor, gears, resettable electrical logic, means for determining the position of the piston portion, and forward / reverse functions. have. Piston portion 346 travels downward along a set of trajectories 347a-b, thereby moving fetal simulator 302 out of maternal simulator 300.

  The protrusion 344 of the piston portion 346 is rotatable, and the birthing device 326 thereby generates both rotation and translational movement of the fetal simulator 302 to simulate a realistic childbirth scenario. In doing so, the fetus rotates and comes to a normal crowning position with the nose down. After leaving, the fetus can rotate further and the shoulder of the fetus can successfully pass through the birth canal. In some embodiments, the receiver 342 is placed in another part of the fetal simulator, such as the head, neck, shoulders, arms, hips, and / or legs. Another embodiment of the receiver 342 and protrusion 344 is described below with respect to FIGS.

  In one embodiment, the levers 346a-b of the piston portion 346 are operably connected to the protrusions 344 and each engage the cams 348a-b to create rotation. When the piston part 346 descends the tracks 347a-b, the levers 346a-b of the piston part engage with the fixed cams 348a-b in turn to move each lever. The movement of the lever rotates the protrusion 344. Eventually, each lever is moved to the point where the lever leaves each cam. It can be seen that cams 348a-b are located where rotation is desired along tracks 347a-b simulating the birth canal. Thus, rotation inside the fetus is caused by lever 346a that engages cam 348a, and rotation outside the fetus is caused by lever 346b that engages cam 348b. As described below with respect to FIG. 28, in some embodiments, the cams 348a-b can move between a position where the fetal simulator is rotated and a position where the fetal simulator is not rotated. Further, in some embodiments, the cams 348a-b include an intermediate position for providing some rotation to the fetal simulator. Alternatively, the program 15a allows adjustment of the rotation of the protrusion 344 from 0 degrees to 180 degrees, as will be described later in connection with FIG. In either embodiment, fetus 302 passes through expandable cervix 350, as described below.

  Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the expandable cervix 350 has a ring 352 having flaps 353a-b attached to the body cavity 333 to hold the cervical position. Accordingly, the flaps 353a-b may have attached snaps, hooks, and annular fasteners, or other releasable coupling means. The wall portion 354 is connected to the ring 352 and is preferably formed of an elastic member such as Lycra (registered trademark) or a thermoplastic elastomer. A gather 356 made of wall members defines a hole 358. The gather 356 may be provided with an attached elastomeric element therein to increase the elasticity of the hole 358. Alternatively, the wall portion 354 itself may have sufficient elasticity.

  When the fetal simulator 302 is pushed through the hole, the hole 358 expands to about 2-10 centimeters in diameter, and due to the shape of the fetal emulator head 334 and the elasticity of the wall 354, the expansion is automatic. Simulated to coincide with fetal descent. The user then performs a measurement of cervical dilation and charts the progress of labor as a labor record (part graph). The elasticity of the wall 354 can be adjusted, for example, by using thicker or thinner wall members, thus creating a cervix that expands faster or slower than normal. The cervix 350 is coaxially provided in the pelvic region 320 having the pubic bone 360, together with a plurality of cover snaps 324a.

  The fetal simulator 302 is exited from the body cavity 333 through the vulva 362 through the cervix 350. The vulva 362 is formed of a flexible material that allows the user to manipulate the vulva or perform a perineal incision to deliver the head 334. The vulva 362 may have a portion of an insert (not shown) having features such as ureters and rectum, which may be used for other genitals to indicate various patient conditions. It should be understood that it can be replaced with After childbirth, the user may perform postpartum exercises such as massage to return the uterine insert (not shown) to the desired size, removal of the retained placenta portion (not shown), or cervical The repair of the part 350 or the vulva part 362 may be performed.

  In one embodiment, the torso 316 has a simulated heart, lungs, and ribs. The heart (not shown) pulses by the action of a pulsatile flow controlled by program 15a in response to the patient's condition and in response to therapeutic intervention. Palpable pulses can be found at the carotid artery, upper arm, heel, thigh, and foot, back position. The location of a particular pulse cannot be palpated when systolic blood pressure falls, and whether a pulse is present or not depends on the simulated blood pressure. The heart sound is heard at an appropriate position through the stethoscope 12j. The heartbeat is synchronized with virtual electrocardiograms (EKGs) determined by the program 15a. When the stethoscope 12j is applied to a point below the pressure band 12d for blood pressure measurement (FIG. 2), an appropriate Korotkoff sound can be heard.

The maternal simulator 300 displays a combination of ventilation means and sounds of lungs and airways can be heard at appropriate positions using the stethoscope 12j. The simulator 300 breathes spontaneously to achieve the targeted arterial blood gas in a given situation, including reactions to interventions such as gas exchange in the lungs and administration of drugs, and tidal volume And display the amount of rib cage elevation related to physiological condition. Normal gas exchange lung dynamics are hypothetical, including tidal volume (TV), functional residual capacity (FRC) and exhaled carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ). Is controlled by a program 15a. Airway resistance, lung, and chest wall compliance are also controlled by program 15a.

  The heart and lungs are connected to a pressure transducer that establishes airway ventilation and heart compression (compression). For example, if an air line is attached to the wall of the trachea or the lungs of the simulator 300, connected to a sensor circuit connected to the CIM 16, and CPR 16 ventilation is performed in the simulator, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is performed. Monitors the timing and magnitude of ventilation treatment pressure and volume via air lines and sensors. Similarly, when the compression bladder is implanted in the heart or chest cavity of the simulator 300 and the air line is connected to the compression sensor circuit attached to the CIM 16, the correct timing and magnitude of the CPR chest compression procedure. Detect and confirm the thickness. It will be appreciated that compression and ventilation data is obtained from the sensed pressure wave by the CIM 16 via line 36. The blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation are virtually measured in the blood pressure (BP) measurement pressure band 30d (FIG. 2) and the pulse oximeter band, but the data displayed is the program 15a. appear.

  Referring to FIG. 10, a newborn simulator 302 ′ is used to replace the fetal simulator 302 (FIG. 8) to allow the program 15a to perform a newborn resuscitation. In another embodiment, the fetal simulator 302 itself is used for postpartum simulation. In connection with the foregoing, the fetal simulator 302 can have all of the functions and features of the newborn simulator 302 ′ described herein. Newborn simulator 302 ′ has a head 370 with hair 372, eyes 374 a-b, nose 376, and mouth 378. The head assembly is capable of accepting conventional airway appendages (not shown) and whether a conventional airway appendage is placed or whether fluid has passed. And a sensor for checking. The head portion 370 is connected to the body portion 382 via the neck 380.

  The sensor represented as a whole by 30 (FIG. 1a) is placed on the skin of the neonatal simulator (represented with spots) and / or under the skin (represented in the model). Also good. Line 36 "projects from the fuselage 382 to connect a sensor (not shown) to the CIM 16 and to make an electrical, pneumatic, or fluid connection. , Umbilicus position 384 for catheterization, and simulated heart, lungs, and ribs to perform CPR, which are airway ventilation and heart as described above for maternal simulator 300 The neonatal simulator 302 ′ can be detected using heart rate, pulse, oxygen supply, and stethoscope 12j (FIG. 2) or a conventional stethoscope. This represents many of the same features as the mother simulator 300 (FIG. 6) including various body sounds, and the pair of arms 386a-b and the pair of legs 388a-b are also in contact with the body portion 3382. It is.

  In one embodiment, the hands and feet, along with the face and upper torso, change color due to oxygen delivery to the appropriate blood or lack of oxygen. As oxygen delivery to the blood decreases, both hands and feet change color (peripheral cyanosis), followed by the face and upper torso (colored central cyanosis). Such changes are reversible as oxygen delivery in the blood progresses.

  In the best embodiment, the coloring is made by dissolving about 3 grams of a blue thermosensitive coloring dye (e.g., Reversotherm Blue Type F available from Keystone, Chicago, Ill.) Into 10 grams of a clear vinyl resin paint thinner. This is realized by using a material dispersed in 300 grams of vinyl resin paint. The mixture is applied to the hands, feet, chest and face. At room temperature, the newborn is blue. A resistive heater (such as that available from Minco Products of Minneapolis, Minn.) Is connected in parallel and placed under the skin to increase the surface temperature of the skin to 5-15 watts per square inch or about 115 ° C. Apply enough heat energy to erase the blue color. The heater power is supplied via the CIM 16. Peripheral and central heaters are controlled separately to allow for the development of peripheral cyanosis that does not cause central cyanosis. A heat sink can also be provided with the heater to allow for faster cooling and thus more rapid color change.

  In one embodiment, the thermal coloring system is logically connected to the program 15a, for example, the instructor clearly defines the conditions for the newborn. Thereafter, the coloring corresponds to the quality of CPR executed by the user, and is either improved, deteriorated, or maintained as it is. Program 15a also provides an override if a color change is not desired. Alternatively, coloring can be simulated by applying a conventional photochromic material to the simulator so that when exposed to the relevant adjustable UV light, the simulator appears to turn blue. As another alternative, the coloration may be simulated by colored light. For example, according to one aspect, a blue light emitting diode (LED) can be used.

  As described above with respect to the maternal simulator, in some embodiments, the newborn simulator does not have a line 36 ". Rather, such a newborn simulator is tetherless and may be wired to external devices, tubes, or other physical Function independently without the need for a general connection.

  Referring to FIG. 11, the birthing system 500 illustrates the use of the previous embodiment. In the simulator 14, for example, a maternal simulator 300 and a fetal simulator 302 are placed on a table 502. Students W, X, Y, and Z occupy positions around the table, for example, W oversees drug treatment, Y oversees virtual instrument 12, X oversees anesthesia, Z oversees obstetrics Oversee. The birthing device 326 is driven via a manual crank or by a small motor 326a connected to the control box 328, as described above, or the program 15a of the computer 15 selectively controls the birthing device 326. Can (shown in the model). Whichever control is used, the expandable cervix accurately reflects the progression of fetal simulator birth canal descent. Eventually, as described above, the fetal simulator is delivered.

  Once the fetal simulator is born, teams W ′, X ′, and Y ′ (these are the same students as W, X, Y, or others depending on the size of the class) are placed on table 502 ′. Move along path 1 to perform newborn nursing on. At least one team lacking Z remains behind with the maternal simulator for the possibility of monitoring and stabilization. The fetal simulator is switched to a newborn simulator 14 ′, eg, a newborn simulator 302 ′ (FIG. 10). If connected to a computer, program 15a can be used to simulate what is needed for neonatal resuscitation, and CPR and other emergency nursing protocols may be implemented. Program 15a monitors nursing received by the simulator via CIM 16 and virtual instrument 12, and compares this nursing to the recognized standard.

  On the other hand, the program 15a of the computer 15 may be used to simulate what is necessary for maternal resuscitation. If so, one team moves along path 2 and performs maternal nursing at table 502 ". Students W", X ", Y" and Z are maternal simulators 14 ", e.g., fetuses. Work can be performed on the maternal simulator 300 from which the simulator has been removed, CPR and other emergency care may be provided, and the program 15a monitors the care received by the simulator via the CIM 16 and the virtual instrument 12.

  Referring to FIG. 12, a screen display 400 of the introductory part of the program 15a is shown on the computer 15 to teach the patient nursing protocol to the user. Display 400 has several decorative features. The title box 402, fetal heart rate box 404, maternal intrauterine pressure box 405, vital signs box 406, and ultrasound video box 407. The display 400 also has a teaching box 408, a test box 410, and a virtual instrument textbook box 412. As will be described later, in some modules, the program 15a compares information about the user's activities with a predetermined standard.

  The screen display 400 displays a collection of selectable patient care modules 414a-p provided by the program 15a, which provides information about medical subjects and related concepts. Each module has a single theme and displays an interactive patient care training session for the user. Modules 414a-g are provided in the teaching box 408 and give an overview of the relevant physiology, pregnancy, complications, labor / delivery, and childbirth, postpartum, and maternal and neonatal resuscitation protocols. Modules 414h-j are placed in the test box 410 and give the opportunity to test the user for maternal and neonatal resuscitation protocols, along with the protocol defined by the instructor (Codemaker). An exit button 415 for ending the program 15 a is also arranged in the test box 410. Modules 414k-p are located within the virtual instrument textbook box 412 and give the user guidance on the use of the system including automatic childbirth, fetal ultrasound, fetal asphyxia monitor, vital signs, labor records, and cardiopulmonary sounds.

  Referring to FIG. 13, if one of the modules (FIG. 12) is selected by the user, for example, by voice recognition or selection with the mouse of the computer 15, the program 15a displays a display screen 416. The display screen 416 has an information box 418, which contains subject-specific information. The display screen 416 also has a menu bar 420 that contains information items (shown for convenience as A to D) that list information categories specific to the subject of the selected module. An item can be selected from the screen 416 via the menu bar 420, and each module 414a-p has its own display screen, along with its own menu for a particular information item AD. It should be understood that each item can be expanded to contain multiple items or compressed, for example, by placing selectable sub-items under the item.

  When an item is selected from a menu different from the containing item, text and / or diagrams relating to the selected menu item are displayed in information box 418. During practice, the program can generate a new display screen (not shown). Thus, it should be understood that the information screen 416 is used as an example of any number of screens, and that such screens can be displayed for each item in a series or in a set. A set of screens, such as display screen 416, constitutes guidance on the patient treatment protocol for the selected menu item. Thus, the user can review information from the subject library by selecting the appropriate modules and items and then navigating through a set of screens. The navigation on a set of screens is that the user has three boxes 422, 424 and 426, "Back", "Next" and "Exit", respectively, This is accomplished by selecting between the boxes having corresponding functions on the screen, such as going backwards or forwards in the set. If the “back” or “next” function is not possible, then the box 422 or 424 is not selectable, as is the case for a set of first and last screens, respectively.

  For example, modules 414f and 414g each generate a set to teach the user about maternal and neonatal resuscitation, respectively. The user can also perform CPR on a simulator 14 (FIG. 1a), such as the maternal simulator 300 or neonatal simulator 302 ′ described above, and the program 15a includes CIM 16 (FIG. 1a) and sensor 30 (FIG. 1a). And detecting the user's compression and ventilation. The cardiopulmonary of the simulator 14 is connected to a pressure transducer that establishes airway ventilation and heart compression; for example, an air line is provided in the tracheal wall of the simulator 14 and connected to a sensor 30 connected to the CIM 16; When CPR ventilation is performed in the simulator, the CIM 16 monitors the pressure timing and magnitude and volume of the ventilation activity via air lines and sensors. Similarly, the correct timing and strength of the CPR chest compression procedure when the compression sac is embedded in the chest cavity of the simulator 14 and connected to the compression sensor 30 attached to the CIM 16 by an air line. Is detected and confirmed. Program 15a compares information about user activity with a predetermined standard and provides an interactive training session.

  Predetermined standards are selectable, and include basic life support (BLS) and advanced life support (ACLS) guidelines established by the American Heart Association and others. Reflect medical protocols used around the world. At least seven major protocols for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) are stored and selectable by the user. In addition, the user can update or enter the protocol and store a “new protocol” that reflects the local protocol for heart compression and airway ventilation depth, duration, and frequency. The program uses a set of tolerance limits to create a new CPR waveform to test CPR.

  Returning to FIG. 12, selecting test modules 414h-j from test box 410 directs execution of program 15a, and users in patient care protocols such as maternal resuscitation and neonatal resuscitation, and other responses to emergency scenarios. Provides a test sequence useful for testing Program 15a proceeds slowly through the procedure of the patient's pain scenario, giving the user a predetermined time to respond or complete the required work, thereby causing the user to experience difficulties in an emergency situation. Enable. For example, program 15a can test a user by providing the options that the user must select to treat the patient, where the user is correct before the sequence proceeds to the next event. The selection must be performed. Program 15a allows the user to enable, disable or check the connection of virtual instrument 12 and sensor 30 to provide input to CIM 16.

  If the virtual instrument 12 (FIG. 2) is available, the virtual instrument 12 can be used by the user to perform patient care activities on the simulator 14, but the results and quality of the response are the program 15a. Be monitored by. Alternatively, the user may use a software simulated instrument 12 ′ (FIG. 1b) generated by the program 15a. The program 15a proceeds along the scenario until the patient is resuscitated (recovered) and provides a critique of the current state of the user's response along with a description of each incorrect choice and action. The features of the test modules 414h-j allow the user to specify that the sequence of movements predetermined by the scenario has a predetermined number of compression / ventilation cycles to the simulator 14, or the compression performed by the user on the simulator 14 And the time and intensity of the ventilation action can be recorded, or can be chosen between a set of choices to hear a realistic sound.

  The test can be defined by the program 15a or by the user as described above. For example, selecting the codemaker's test module 414j (FIG. 12) allows a first user, eg, an instructor, to generate a scenario and test a second user, eg, a student. The first user is a piece of information such as gender, weight, age, patient indication, vital signs and heart rhythm that is realistically reflected in vital signs box 406 (FIG. 12). By entering a set of preliminary patient parameters, a patient simulator with a test scenario can be defined. The test system established by the instructor allows the instructor to test students with regional, national, or international patient care protocols. A number of algorithms are selectable by opening the file, which have BLS, ACLS, pediatric, and obstetric (OB) emergency situations. Other algorithms can be generated and stored, and the algorithms may be linked together. The benefits of this module include flexibility in teaching and the ability to detect grasp of the subject. The algorithm defined by the instructor will probably be different from the algorithm with a well-known structure, but by doing so, the problem of memorizing the responses by students can be avoided.

  The action is made, for example, in response to a condition by the student that the student selects from virtual instruments and uses it to perform patient nursing activities. The student can then virtually perform patient care activities or use a tangible simulator.

  Modules 414k-p in virtual instrument textbook box 412 provide information about instruments commonly used in childbirth scenarios. In some examples, the patient care protocol provides an opportunity to use some of the virtual instruments 12 in the simulator 14.

  Proceed to FIG. 14 and FIG. The entire childbirth process can be automated via the program 15a by the user simply defining initial conditions such as delivery time 430, delivery overview 432, and compression strength 434. The warp function allows for a complete delivery reduction from 16 hours to 5 minutes. Childbirth consists of placing the fetal simulator 302 on the protrusion 344 and placing the cover 324 on the maternal simulator 300. The program 15a also makes it possible to change the traveling speed of the piston portion 346. That is, the first 2-3 centimeters progress more slowly than the last 2-3 centimeters and better simulate childbirth.

  Referring to FIG. 16, if module 414m (FIG. 12) is selected, a set of screens for a fetal asphyxia monitor are shown with instructional information. An exemplary fetal asphyxia monitor box 436 is depicted with a selectable ON button 436a for turning on the monitor. The fetal asphyxia monitor 121 cooperates with the simulator 14 to place the fetal heart monitor on the cover 324 of the maternal simulator 300 (FIG. 5a) and interact with at least one sensor 30, while the compression monitor is on the cover. It interacts with another sensor 30 provided in.

  Referring to FIG. 17, a newborn simulator 600 is used to replace the fetal simulator 302 to allow the program 15a to perform a resuscitation of the newborn. In one embodiment, the newborn simulator 600 is substantially the average size of a newborn with a gestational age of 28 weeks. In another embodiment, the newborn simulator 600 is substantially the average size of a newborn with a gestational age of 40 weeks. Neonatal simulator 600 represents many of the same features as maternal simulator 300, including heart rate, pulse rate, oxygen supply, and various body sounds that can be detected using stethoscope 12j or a conventional stethoscope. Further, as will be described later, the newborn simulator 600 is independent in that it does not require wiring or tube connection to external devices such as bulky external compressors and power supplies to properly operate various functions. The newborn simulator 600 is portable. In some embodiments, the neonatal simulator is tetherless and functions without the need for wiring, tubing, or other physical connections to other external devices.

  Newborn simulator 600 has a head 602 with hair 604, eyes 606 and 608, nose 610, and mouth 612. The head 602 is connected to the body 616 via the neck 614. The torso 616 has a umbilical location 618 for catheterization. The torso 616 also has a compatible genital location 620 that is adapted to receive both male and female genital pieces (not shown). Two arms 622 and 624 are connected above and extend from the torso 616. Two legs 626 and 628 are connected below the body portion 616 and extend therefrom.

  The sensor, generally designated 30, is, as described above, on the neonatal simulator skin (represented with spots) and / or under the skin (in the model) to simulate various features. May be arranged). The torso 616 has a simulated heart, lungs, and ribs for performing CPR. In one aspect, the heart and lungs are connected to a pressure transducer to confirm airway ventilation and heart compression, as described above for maternal simulator 300. The torso 616 also includes other components such as a power source and a wireless communication device. In one embodiment, the power source is a rechargeable pack of 5 lithium ion batteries. In one aspect, the power source is located in an area normally reserved for the liver.

  In order to fit all the functions of the neonatal simulator 600 into a newborn sized mannequin with a gestational age of 28 weeks or 40 weeks, a number of electronic components must be sized appropriately and accurately placed in the mannequin where needed. I must. In one embodiment, the electronic components of the newborn simulator 600 are not placed on a general motherboard, but are grouped into smaller modules according to function, for example, FIG. A possible set of modules 630 is shown. This set of modules 630 includes a master module 632 that couples the newborn simulator 600 to a computer, a module 634 that generates ECG signals, and a module 636 that generates sounds such as heart sounds, lung sounds, voices, and Korotkoff sounds. A module 638 for detecting pressure such as chest compression, airway ventilation, blood pressure, and compressor, a module 640 for monitoring intubation, a module 642 for driving valves and LEDs, a wireless interface and USB-RF, etc. It has a module 644 that provides a connection, a module 646 that creates sounds for voice, and a module 648 that creates sounds other than voice. One or more of these modules 632-648 can be combined to simulate any number of features of the newborn simulator 600.

  Referring to FIG. 19, the newborn simulator 600 has a near real airway 650 that is accessible via the mouth 612 and the nose 610. Airway 650 can accept a conventional airway appendage, for example, a sensor such as module 640 can determine whether a conventional airway appendage is placed or whether fluid has passed through the airway. Arranged to find out. In one embodiment, module 640 is an optical sensor that monitors the position of an airway appendage, such as an endotracheal tube, and checks that the position of the appendage is too high, too low, or just right. The newborn simulator 600 also has a simulated esophagus 652 that extends to the torso 616 toward the simulated stomach.

  Referring to FIG. 20, the newborn simulator 600 also includes an air supply system 654 for simulating respiration, pulse, and associated newborn physiological conditions. The air supply system 654 may be a muffler 656, a compressor 658 (which may be a single diaphragm compressor such as the T2-03E type available from T Squared Pumps, NJ), check valve 660 (suitable valves are available from Gulf Controls, Florida), compressor controller 662, primary accumulator 664, and secondary accumulator 666. Alternatively, the compressor may be a rotary compressor or other suitable compressor.

  In operation, the air supply system 654 supplies pressurized air to the newborn simulator 600 as follows. Atmosphere 668 or air from the tank enters the compressor through input silencer 656. The compressor controller 662 is used to maintain the pressure in the primary accumulator 664. Check valve 660 ensures that the air flow is in the correct orientation. A pressure regulator (not shown) can also be used to maintain a predetermined pressure in the secondary accumulator. The primary and secondary accumulators are connected to the actuator of the newborn simulator 600 and control the air supply. In one embodiment, the primary accumulator is connected to the actuator to control the air supply to the airway 650. In one embodiment, the secondary accumulator is connected to the actuator to control the air supply to the lungs. The compressor controller 662 selectively supplies power to the compressor 658 to maintain the desired pressure in the primary accumulator. In one embodiment, the approximate value of the desired primary accumulator pressure is 4.5 to 5.5 psi, and the approximate value of the desired secondary accumulator pressure is 1.5 psi. In some embodiments, the air supply system 654 is further connected to the simulated circulatory system to facilitate the simulated circulatory system, such as providing a simulated pulse.

  The components of the air supply system 654 are arranged, insulated, and attenuated to minimize the noise generated by the system. Since the user evaluates the heart and breathing of the newborn simulator 600 using a stethoscope, excessive noise from the air supply system 654 is intrusive to the user and causes distraction. For this purpose, a part of the air supply system 654 may be housed in the head 602 and both hands and feet (arms 622, 624 and legs 626, 628) of the newborn simulator 600.

  For example, according to one embodiment, the compressor 658, the check valve 660, and the compressor controller 662 are located in the head 602 and in the silencer and accumulator legs 626, 628. Noise generated by the parts of the head is blocked by the sound absorbing enclosure 672 schematically shown in FIG. According to one embodiment, the sound dampening enclosure 672 is a two-layer system having a first layer that functions as a sound insulator and a second layer that functions as a mass barrier. In one aspect, the sound insulator and mass barrier are formed of a noise-preventing material from EAR Specialty Compositions. Further, the exhaust generated by the compressor 658 is sent into the legs 626, 628 of the newborn simulator 600. Each leg 626, 628 includes a silencing system and an air tank. The muffler system buffers “noisy” exhaust and provides the tank with “quiet” air that the neonatal simulator 600 uses for breathing and pulse simulation. In one aspect, the legs 626, 628 themselves function as an air tank and are sealed to prevent leakage.

  FIG. 21 shows an example of a mute system 674. The silencer system 674 has three separate portions 676, 678, and 680 that buffer the noisy air sound. Each portion 676, 678, and 680 each has a first layer 682, 684, and 686 that functions as a sound insulator and a second layer 688, 690, and 692 that functions as a mass barrier. In one embodiment, the sound insulator and mass barrier are formed of similar to the anti-noise material from the EAR Specialty Composites described above as the sound dampening enclosure 672. Noisy air is sent through tube 694 into the muffler system. Quiet or buffered air then exits the silencer system via tube 696. In one embodiment, each leg 626, 628 is lined with an anti-noise material as well as a silencing system to further attenuate and cushion the noise.

  In one embodiment, the hands and feet, along with the face and upper torso, change color due to oxygen delivery to the appropriate blood or lack of oxygen. As oxygen delivery to the blood decreases, both hands and feet change color (peripheral cyanosis), followed by the face and upper torso (colored central cyanosis). Such changes are reversible as oxygen delivery in the blood progresses. In one embodiment, the length of time the newborn's oxygen is depleted determines where the color change and the corresponding change in vital signs begin, and the work required to successfully return the newborn to a healthy state. . In some embodiments, the simulator has a mechanism to change the central and peripheral colors separately. This mechanism, in some embodiments, simulates cyanosis using blue LEDs or other lights.

  In one embodiment, the thermal coloring system is logically connected to the program 15a, for example, the instructor clearly defines the conditions for the newborn. Thereafter, the coloring corresponds to the quality of CPR executed by the user, and is either improved, deteriorated, or maintained as it is. By comparison, adults can tolerate 5-10 minutes without oxygen. Maternal or maternal simulator 300 is affected more quickly because it uses oxygen faster than a normal adult. On the other hand, newborns can tolerate about 15 minutes without oxygen, but die in about 30 minutes. Thus, if the hypoxic event is 5-7 minutes, the newborn simulator 600 "returns to pink" fairly easily. If the hypoxic event is 12-15 minutes, recovery is slower and more work on the user side is required. In addition, if the hypoxic event is longer than 20 minutes, it is very difficult for the user to “return” the newborn simulator 600 to pink, even if epinephrine is used, and the newborn simulator 600 will die, such as cerebral palsy You can have a lifelong disease.

  In one embodiment, the instructor can select the degree of cyanosis of the newborn simulator 600, as shown by the screen display 700 of FIG. Although not shown in the screen display 700, the instructor can also use the muscle tensions (eg, funyafunya, moderately flexible, movement, etc.) Other attributes of the newborn simulator 600 can be selected or defined, such as “crying, moaning, wheezing, etc.”. The vital signs and recovery of the newborn simulator 600 can be monitored using a display 702 as shown in FIG. The program also provides an override if you do not want a color change.

  24-27, an engagement system 740 is shown, which is an alternative embodiment of a receiver 342 and protrusion 344 system that selectively engages the fetal or neonatal simulator 302, 600 with the maternal simulator 300. is there,. The engagement system 740 includes a mechanism 742 that engages the mechanism 744. In some embodiments, mechanism 742 is located in fetal or neonatal simulator 302, 600 and mechanism 744 is located in maternal simulator 300. In one embodiment, mechanism 742 replaces receiver 342 and mechanism 744 replaces protrusion 344. In another embodiment, mechanism 742 is disposed within maternal simulator 300 and mechanism 744 is disposed within fetal or neonatal simulator 302, 600.

  With particular reference to FIG. 25, the mechanism 742 includes a housing 745 that extends through the opening 746. In this embodiment, the opening 746 is centrally located and is substantially cylindrical. In other embodiments, the opening 746 can have various other cross-sectional shapes, including polygons, irregular shapes, other shapes, and the like. The mechanism 742 also has a lock portion 748. The lock portion 748 and the housing 745 may be permanently fixed together (for example, bonded) or may be temporarily fixed together (for example, fitted with screws). Furthermore, the locking portion 748 and / or the housing 745 may have additional features not shown to facilitate fitting between the two pieces. In another embodiment, the housing 745 and the lock 748 are an integral piece.

  As shown in FIG. 26, the lock portion 748 has a main body 749. The main body 749 is to be joined to the opening 746 of the mechanism 742. Thus, in this embodiment, the body 749 is substantially cylindrical, but in other embodiments, it can have other cross-sectional shapes that fit into the opening 746. The lock unit 748 further includes an actuator 750 that moves the lock pin 752 from the extended position shown in FIG. 26 to the retracted position. In one embodiment, the retracted position of the lock pin 752 is substantially within the lock body 749. As will be described later, the mechanism 742 is selectively engaged with the mechanism 744 by selectively extending and retracting the lock pin 752. In this way, the fetal and newborn simulator 302 selectively engages the maternal simulator 300. In some embodiments, the actuator 750 is selectively actuated by a solenoid. In some embodiments, the solenoid is placed in a fetal or neonatal simulator or maternal simulator 300 proximate to the actuator 150. In some embodiments, the solenoid is disposed within mechanism 742. In some embodiments, the solenoid is operated with a wireless device or computer system that allows the instructor to selectively release the fetal or neonatal simulator.

  With particular reference to FIG. 27, mechanism 744 has a body 754. In this embodiment, the body 753 is substantially cylindrical, but in other embodiments, it has other cross-sectional shapes. The mechanism 744 also has an engaging portion 754. The engagement portion 754 has a substantially square cross-sectional shape, but in other embodiments, it has other cross-sectional shapes. The engagement portion 754 further has an opening 755 extending therethrough. The opening 755 is adapted to receive the lock portion 748 of the mechanism 742. The engaging portion 754 also has a lock hole 756. The lock pin 752 of the lock portion 748 is fitted into the lock hole 756 when extended. When retracted, the lock pin 752 retracts from the lock hole 756 and releases the lock mechanism 748 from the engaging portion 754.

  Referring to FIG. 28, a system for selectively rotating a fetal or neonatal simulator 302, 600 is shown. The system is adapted to move the cam 348a between a first position where the fetal simulator is rotated and a second position where the fetal simulator is not rotated. Thus, the system can be used to selectively rotate or not rotate the fetal simulator during a birthing simulation. In some embodiments, rotation of the fetal simulator is prevented when the cam 348a is retracted to a position proximate to the tracks 347a-b. In some embodiments, the cam 348a can move further to an intermediate position that provides some rotation to the fetal simulator with less rotation than the first position. In some embodiments, the cam 348a can move between multiple intermediate positions, allowing a different rotational momentum at each position. In some embodiments, the plurality of intermediate positions and the rotational momentum are continuous. In some embodiments, the plurality of intermediate positions and the rotational momentum are discrete.

  The system includes a solenoid 760 adapted to selectively retract the cam 348a. The solenoid 760 is connected to the cam 348a via the extension portion 761 and the fixing member 762. In one embodiment, the securing member 762 is a mechanism that connects a bolt, screw, other screw member, or other cam 348 a to the extension 761. Cam 348a is connected to track 347a via fixed members 764 and 766. Fixing members 764 and 766 are bolts and nuts in some embodiments. Fixing members 764 and 766 also serve to prevent cam 348a from undesirably translating and rotating with respect to track 347a. In another embodiment, cam 348a and solenoid 760 may be adapted to translate along track 347a. Further, in some embodiments, cam 348a may be in rotational motion with respect to track 347a. In some embodiments, the position of cam 348a is remotely controlled by a leader or a computer program, and in some embodiments, wirelessly remote controlled. Although the system has been described with respect to track 347a and cam 348a, the system is also applicable to tracks 347b and 348b.

  FIG. 29 is a schematic diagram of a patient simulator system 1100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Patient simulator system 1100 includes patient simulator 1102 and control system 1104. The patient simulator 1102 includes a plurality of modules for performing various functions of the simulator. In some embodiments, each of the modules controls a specific function or group of functions of the simulator 1102. In connection with the foregoing, the modules are appropriately sized for positioning within various portions of the simulator 1102. In some embodiments, the module is positioned throughout the simulator adjacent to an area or area of the simulator 1102 associated with a particular function of the module or an associated body portion of the simulator. Thus, the modules are not distributed on a single motherboard but distributed throughout the simulator. In some embodiments, each of the modules communicates with a master module 1106. As described in more detail below in connection with FIG. 32, in some embodiments, the master module 1106 provides and controls power delivered to the module, and with and within the module. Configured to facilitate communication.

  In this embodiment, patient simulator 1102 communicates wirelessly with control system 1104. In connection with the foregoing, patient simulator 1102 includes a wireless communication module 1108 and an antenna 1110. Wireless communication module 1108 and antenna 1110 communicate with antenna 1112 and wireless communication module 1114 of control system 1104. In this embodiment, the wireless communication module 1114 is connected to or in communication with the computer system 1116. In connection with the foregoing, computer system 1116 is, in some examples, a laptop or tablet computer. In general, computer system 1116, or control system 1104, as a whole, is any combination of hardware and software that can control or define various factors and / or functions of patient simulator 1102.

  In connection with the foregoing, computer system 1116 or control system 1104 includes one or more microprocessors, input devices, storage devices, video controllers, system storage devices, displays, and communication devices. All interconnected by one or more buses. The storage device can be a floppy drive, hard drive, CD-ROM, optical drive, or any other form of storage device. In addition, the storage device may be able to accept a floppy disk, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, or any other form of computer-readable medium that may include computer-executable instructions. . The additional communication device may be a modem, a network card, or any other device that can cause the system to communicate with other devices including the simulator 1102. Any system can represent a plurality of interconnected (intranet or Internet) computer systems, including but not limited to personal computers, mainframes, PDAs, and cell phones. It is understood to include.

  A computer system typically includes at least hardware capable of executing machine-readable instructions and software for executing acts (typically machine-readable instructions) that produce desired results. In addition, the computer system may include hardware and software, as well as a hybrid of computer subsystems. The hardware is generally at least a processor-enabled platform, such as a client machine (also known as a personal computer or server), and a handheld processing device (eg, smart phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), or personal computing devices) (PCDs) etc.). Furthermore, the hardware may include any physical device capable of storing machine-readable instructions, such as a memory or other data storage device. Other forms of hardware include, for example, hardware subsystems including switching devices such as modems, modem cards, ports and port cards.

  The software may be any storage medium, for example, any machine code stored in RAM or ROM, and any machine stored in other devices (eg, floppy disk, flash memory, CD ROM, etc.) Contains code. The software may include source code or object code, for example. In addition, the software includes any set of instructions that can be executed on a client machine or server. A combination of software and hardware can also be used to provide enhanced functionality and performance for certain embodiments of the present disclosure. One example is processing software functions directly into a silicon chip. Accordingly, it should be understood that combinations of hardware and software are also included within the definition of a computer system and are therefore contemplated by the present disclosure as possible equivalent structures and equivalent methods.

  Computer readable media include passive data storage such as random access memory (RAM), and semi-permanent data storage such as compact disk read only memory (CD-ROM). In addition, embodiments of the present disclosure may be embodied in a computer RAM to convert a standard computer to a new specific computer. A data structure is a defined organization of data that may enable embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the data structure may provide an organization of data or an organization of executable code. Data signals are carried on transmission media and can store and carry various data structures, and thus may be used to carry information in some embodiments of the present disclosure.

  The system may be designed to run on any particular architecture. For example, the system may run on a single computer, local area network, client server network, wide area network, Internet, handheld and other portable and wireless devices and networks. The database may be any standard or may be dedicated database software such as Oracle, Microsoft Access, Sybase, or Debase II. A database may have fields, records, data, and other database elements that may be associated through database specific software. Furthermore, the data may be mapped. Mapping is the process of associating one data entry with another data entry. For example, data contained in a character file location can be mapped to fields in the second table. The physical location of the database is not limited and the database may be distributed. For example, the database may exist remotely from the server and may run on a separate platform. Further, the database may be accessible on the Internet. Note that more than one database may be implemented.

  Wireless communication between the communication modules 1108 and 1114 is performed using any wireless protocol that can transfer data between the patient simulator 1102 and the control system 1104. In one particular embodiment, the wireless protocol between communication modules 1108 and 1114 uses the 802.15 protocol. In other embodiments, wireless communication uses other communication protocols, including but not limited to other IEEE 802 protocols and telecommunication network protocols.

  Patient simulator 1102 includes a power supply 1118. In the present embodiment, the power supply device 1118 is a rechargeable battery. In connection with the foregoing, the power supply 1118 is connected to the charger 1120. The charger 1120 is configured to recharge the power supply device 1118. In connection with the foregoing, charger 1120 is configured to communicate with external power supply device 1122. In the present embodiment, the external power supply device 1122 is a wall outlet or a standard line power supply device. In other embodiments, the external power supply 1122 may be connected to the charger 1120 or power supply 1118 such that the power supply 1118 may be wirelessly recharged, for example, by inductive coupling or other wireless charging means. Configured for wireless communication. In some embodiments, the charger 1120 has a backup power supply.

  As described above, the patient simulator 1102 includes a plurality of modules for controlling various features and functions of the simulator. In connection with the foregoing, various modules may be combined to create a simulator with specific features as desired by the customer or user. In this way, the modules included in the patient simulator 1102 may be selected based on the intended use of the simulator. The modular nature of the function specific module allows the simulator 1102 to include these features that the customer initially wants in any combination, but also allows the customer to add additional features or disable included features later Or make it possible. One particular combination of modules available for use in the simulator 1102 will now be described in connection with FIG. However, it is not intended to be limited thereby. In connection with the foregoing, it is understood that the patient simulator 1102 may include additional combinations, fewer combinations, or other combinations of modules in other embodiments. Various combinations of the modules illustrated in FIG. 29 are particularly suitable for use with different types of patient simulators. For example, in some examples, a combination of modules is selected for use in a maternal simulator for simulating a birth sequence that includes the birth of a fetal simulator. In other embodiments, a combination of modules is selected for use in patient simulators of various sizes and ages, from and between newborns to fully grown adults. Accordingly, a patient simulator system according to the present disclosure may include some or all of the modules illustrated in FIG.

  Patient simulator 1102 includes a voice module 1124. Voice module 1124 communicates with master module 1106, which in turn communicates with control system 1104. The voice module 1124 is an audio module configured to emit sound that simulates a patient's voice. In connection with the foregoing, the particular sound emitted by the voice module 1124 is controlled by the user through the control system 1104 in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the control system 1104 includes a plurality of stored or pre-recorded sounds that may be selected from and played by the voice module 1124.

  In some embodiments, the sound includes one or more of various answers to questions that medical personnel ask the patient and / or sounds that the patient will emit. For example, the answers can be a variety of medical conditions (eg, “broken ankle”, “broken arm”, “bleeding in the toilet”, “not breathing”, “cannot move”, “move the leg” `` No '', `` Chest hurts '', `` Vaginalized '', `` I have a feeling of pressure on my chest '', `` I feel dizzy '', `` I feel nauseous '', `` I feel weak, '' `` Heart is fast '', "I'm excited", "Heart jumps", "My body hurts", "I hurt when I breathe", "I've been cut", "My chin hurts", "My left arm hurts "Pain", "Legs broken", "Blood", "Peeding blood", "Pooping blood", "Vagating blood", "breathing", "Shoulder" Hurts "," shot by someone "," stomach hurts "," worst headache ", and / or other illness ), Confused answers (for example, "Is you a doctor", "I don't remember", "What happened", "Who are you", and / or other confused answers ), Location answers (eg “arms”, “chest”, “legs”, “shoulders”, “left side”, “right side” and / or other location answers), descriptive Answers (for example, “a little”, “a lot”, “can't move”, “dull”, “sharp”, “doesn't hurt ... pressure”, “the center of the chest Painful "," sharp and tearing pain "and / or other descriptive answers), ambiguous answers (eg," I'm fine "," Take me to the hospital ", and / or other Vague answers), common answers (eg, “Yes”, “No”, “Maybe , And / or other common answers), medical history answers (eg, “asthma”, “diabetes”, “pulmonary emphysema”, “had a heart attack”, “hypertension”, and / or other medical history. Answers), occurrence answers (eg, “1”, “2”, “3”, “4”, “from last night”, “from this morning”, “from afternoon”, and / or others May be included). In addition to the answers and responses described above, sounds include coughing, nausea, stuffyness, whispering, shrieking, and / or other sounds emitted by the patient. In connection with the foregoing, each of the sounds may have a different level or type. For example, in some examples, the sounds include different severity coughs, nausea, whispering, shrieking, and / or other sounds.

  In some embodiments, the control system 1104 may be configured so that a user or teacher speaks into a microphone or other sound communication device coupled to the control system and the teacher's words or sounds are emitted from the voice module 1124. Communicate with voice module 1124. In some embodiments, user or teacher input may be conditioned using voice amplifiers or sound boards to alter the sound of voices emitted from the voice module 1124. For example, in some embodiments, the input sound is conditioned to simulate a hoarse voice patient, a patient with a closed airway, or other mental or physical condition of the patient. In connection with the foregoing, the teacher may selectively activate various types of audio conditioning based on the desired effect. The voice module 1124 and corresponding voice simulation are used in some embodiments as part of the general medical scenario simulation.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes a heart sound module 1126. Heart sound module 1126 is an audio module configured to emit sound to simulate the natural sound of the patient's heart. In connection with the foregoing, the sound of the heart sound module 1126 is associated with the patient's heart rate and rhythm (eg, sinus, atrial tachycardia, multi-source atrial tachycardia, atrial flutter, atrial fibrillation, junction, Ventricular peculiar, ventricular tachycardia (single), ventricular tachycardia (multiple), supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular flutter, ventricular fibrillation, dead war period, systolic failure, left leg block, right leg block, second 1st AVB, 2nd AVB (Type I), 2nd AVB (Type II), 3rd AVB, Q wave myocardial infarction, ST elevation, ST decline, T wave reversal, atrial pacing, atrioventricular sequential pacing, One or more sounds are included to simulate a ventricular pacemaker (artificial) and / or other heart rhythm. Further, the heart sounds may be normal, distal, or absent, and may include systolic noise, S3 and / or S4. The control system 1104 and / or the user using the control system, in some embodiments, determines what heart sound is generated and at what speed the sound is generated. The sound produced by the heart sound module 1126 can be detected via the use of a stethoscope in some examples. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the heart sound module 1126, such as a speaker, is positioned within the simulator 1102 where a real heart will be.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes lung sound modules 1128, 1130, 1132, 1134, 1136, 1138, 1140, and 1142. In particular, the lung sound module 1128 is used to simulate the sound of the upper right lung toward the front of the simulator 1102. The lung sound module 1130 is used to simulate the sound of the upper left lung toward the front of the simulator. The lung sound module 1132 is used to simulate the sound of the lower right lung toward the front of the simulator 1102. The lung sound module 1134 is used to simulate the left lower lung sound toward the front of the simulator 1102. The lung sound module 1136 is used to simulate the sound of the upper right lung toward the back of the simulator. The lung sound module 1138 is used to simulate the sound of the upper left lung toward the back of the simulator. The lung sound module 1140 is used to simulate the sound of the lower right lung toward the back of the simulator 1102. The lung sound module 1142 is used to simulate the sound of the lower left lung toward the front of the simulator 1102.

  Each of the lung sound modules 1128, 1130, 1132, 1134, 1136, 1138, 1140, and 1142 are audio modules that are configured to generate sound to simulate the natural sound of the patient's lungs. In connection with the foregoing, lung sound modules 1128, 1130, 1132, 1134, 1136, 1138, 1140, and 1142 are configured in some embodiments to generate one or more of the following lung sounds. Normal: none, wheezing, inspiratory key sound, crackle, rail, and / or other lung sounds. In addition, a combination of lung sound modules 1128, 1130, 1132, 1134, 1136, 1138, 1140, and 1142 are used to simulate, but are not limited to, normal, cousmaul, chain -Includes Stokes, Bio, sustained inspiration, and / or other breathing patterns. Also, a combination of lung sound modules 1128, 1130, 1132, 1134, 1136, 1138, 1140, and 1142 is used to simulate the patient's respiratory rate. In connection with the foregoing, the respiration rate may be set to a constant rate and / or may be set to change over time.

  The patient simulator 1102 also includes a K sound module 1144 for the right arm of the simulator and a K sound module 1146 for the left arm of the simulator. Each of the K sound modules 1144 and 1146 is configured to generate a simulated K sound (Korotkoff sound). In connection with the foregoing, K sound modules 1144 and 1146 are used to allow the user to measure the blood pressure of the patient simulator 1102. Accordingly, the K sound generated by modules 1144 and 1146 is determined based on the simulated heart rate and blood pressure. In some examples, the heart rate and blood pressure of the patient simulator 1102 are provided by the user or teacher via the control system 1104. The patient simulator 1102 also includes a uterine audio module 1148 to simulate fetal sounds in the maternal uterus. For example, in some embodiments, the uterine audio module 1148 is configured to simulate the fetal heartbeat in the uterus.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes a compressor 1150. A compressor 1150 is used to provide a compressed air supply to various pneumatic devices of the simulator 1102. For example, in some embodiments, a module for using the compressor 1150 to simulate lungs, pulses, contractions, abdominal pressure, seizures, eye dilation, blinking, and / or other aspects of the patient simulator 1102 To provide air. In some embodiments, the compressor 1150 provides compressed air to one or more reservoirs or accumulators that are then connected to various air modules of the simulator 1102. In connection with the foregoing, the air reservoir may maintain different air pressures so that different air modules are connected to the air reservoir at the appropriate air pressure for that application. In some examples, the air module of the patient simulator 1102 that uses the compressor 1150 is configured to run at relatively low air pressure, eg, less than 10 psi in some embodiments and less than 5 psi in other embodiments. Composed. In some examples, simulator 1102 includes two accumulators, one of which maintains an air pressure of approximately 5 psi and the other accumulator maintains an air pressure of approximately 1 psi. In other embodiments, the accumulator maintains other air pressures. In general, however, the patient simulator 1102 and its associated components are configured to operate at low pressure, which helps prevent water from being introduced into the simulator to which the high pressure system is coupled. The consequence of using a high-pressure system, but if water is introduced into the simulator, it can damage the simulator, increasing maintenance costs and removing or limiting the amount of water in the simulator. Requires additional components to do.

  Further, the compressor 1150 is sized to fit completely within the simulator 1102. In connection with the foregoing, the compressor 1150 operates quietly so as not to interfere with other simulation aspects of the simulator 1102. Thus, in some examples, a silencing system is used to minimize the noise generated by the compressor 1150. The silencing system is used in some embodiments on the input side, output side, and / or both sides of the compressor. Further, the compressor 1150 is self-cooling in some examples. In one such embodiment, the compressor 1150 includes a plurality of metal pipes surrounding at least the compressor motor through which the intake air proceeds. The intake air that travels through the metal pipe helps dissipate the heat generated by the compressor 1150. Thus, the compressor 1150 can operate entirely within the simulator 1102 without overheating or disturbing other simulation aspects of the simulator. This allows the simulator 1102 to be fully functional without being attached to a noisy external high pressure compressor.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes a compression module 1152. The compression module 1152 is configured to monitor the force of chest compression applied to the simulator 1102. In connection with the foregoing, the compression module 1152 is configured to monitor the applied pressure and, based on the pressure, determine whether the pressure is too high, too low, or within a desired range. Is done. The compression module 1152 communicates with the master module 1106 to relay the determination of whether the correct pressure is being applied to the control system 1104. In some embodiments, the simulator 1102 goes to recovery or further complications based on whether the correct pressure is being applied. For example, if chest compression is within the desired range of pressure, the patient simulator may show signs of recovery. On the other hand, if chest compression is outside the desired range of pressure, the patient simulator may develop additional problems or symptoms and / or make it more difficult for the simulator to recover from the current symptoms. Sometimes.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes a right lung valve 1154, a left lung valve 1156, and a breathing valve 1158. Together, right lung valve 1154, left lung valve 1156, and breathing valve 1158 control the flow of air into and out of the lungs of patient simulator 1102. In connection with the foregoing, each of the valves 1154, 1156, and 1158 has an air valve. In some embodiments, the breathing valve 1158 is used to control the breathing rate of the simulator 1102. In connection with the foregoing, the respiratory valve 1158 opens and closes in order for the lungs to expand and contract at the desired rate. The right lung valve 1154 and the left lung valve 1156 are used to selectively disable the right and / or left lung, respectively. Thus, in some embodiments, when the right lung valve is open, the three-way air pilot valve is closed so that air cannot flow from the breathing valve into the right lung. In such an example, air flows only from the breathing valve into the left lung. Factors such as lung invalidation, breathing rate, breathing pattern, inspiration rate, and / or left or right lung invalidation may be based on signals received from control system 1104 via master module 1106. 1154, 1156, and 1158.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes an ECG module 1160. The ECG module is configured to emit electrical signals that simulate the electrical activity of the heart of the simulator 1102. In some embodiments, the ECG module is configured to provide a signal associated with each of the 12 leads such that the 12 lead ECG signal is available to the user. In some embodiments, the ECG module 1160 is configured to emit signals that simulate the presence of myocardial infarction in various parts of the heart. In some embodiments, the location of the myocardial infarction is selected via the control system 1104. Accordingly, the ECG module is used to train the user to identify the onset of heart attacks and / or related symptoms that are identifiable via the ECG. The electrical signal of the ECG module can be detected by standard ECG equipment.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes a delivery motor module 1162. The delivery motor module 1162 is used to control delivery of the fetus or newborn from the simulator 1102 in embodiments where the simulator is a birth simulator. In connection with the foregoing, the delivery motor module 1162 is used to control the position of the baby in the maternal simulator. Upon activation by the delivery motor module 1162, the delivery mechanism prompts the baby from the maternal uterus. In some embodiments, the delivery mechanism delivers the baby at least partially from the maternal uterus and the user completes the delivery of the baby. In some embodiments, the delivery mechanism rotates the baby as it passes through the birth canal.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes a ventilation module 1164. The ventilation module 1164 is configured to monitor the use of a ventilation device applied to the simulator 1102. The ventilator is, in some examples, a bag valve mask. In another example, the ventilator is the user's mouth, such as in mouse-to-mouse resuscitation. The ventilation module 1164 is configured to monitor the pressure applied by the ventilator and based on the pressure, determine whether the pressure is too high, too low, or within a desired range. The ventilation module 1164 communicates with the master module 1106 to relay to the control system 1104 the determination of whether the correct pressure is being applied. In some embodiments, the simulator 1102 goes to recovery or further complications based on whether the correct pressure is being applied. For example, if ventilation is within the desired range of pressure, the patient simulator may show signs of recovery. On the other hand, if the ventilation is outside the desired range of pressure, the patient simulator may develop additional problems or symptoms and / or make it more difficult for the simulator to recover from the current symptoms. There is also.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes a femoral artery pulsation module 1166. The femoral artery pulsation module 1166 is an air module for simulating the femoral artery pulsation of the simulator 1102. Patient simulator 1102 also includes a right foot beat module 1168 and a left foot beat module 1170. The left and right foot beat modules 1168, 1170 are configured to simulate the foot beats of the simulator 1102. In connection with the foregoing, in some embodiments, foot beat modules 1168, 1170 are electrical modules configured to simulate foot beats. In other embodiments, foot beat modules 1168, 1170 are air modules configured to simulate foot beats. Patient simulator 1102 also includes a right radial artery pulsation module 1172 and a left radial artery pulsation module 1174. The left and right radial artery pulsation modules 1172 and 1174 are air modules for simulating the radial artery pulsation of the simulator 1102. Patient simulator 1102 also includes a bilateral pulse module 1176. Patient simulator 1102 also includes an umbilical cord beat module 1178. The patient simulator 1102 also includes a multifunction module 1180 configured to simulate the simulator's heart sounds, k sounds, and / or pulses. The patient simulator 1102 also includes a multifunction module 1182 that is used as a lung valve and / or a breathing valve for the patient simulator 1102.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes a right blood pressure cuff module 1184 and a left blood pressure cuff module 1186. The left and right blood pressure cuff modules 1184 and 1186 are pressure modules configured to allow the user to measure the simulated blood pressure of the patient simulator 1102. The blood pressure cuff modules 1184 and 1186 are configured to be used with a standard blood pressure monitor in some embodiments.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes a plurality of color change modules 1188, 1190, and 1192. In connection with the foregoing, the color change module 1188 is configured to control the color change around the lips of the simulator 1102. The color change module 1190 is configured to control color changes around the fingers of the simulator. The color change module 1192 is configured to control the color change around the toes of the simulator. Color change modules 1188, 1190, and 1192 are used, in some embodiments, to simulate patient simulator cyanosis. Thus, the color change modules 1188, 1190, and 1192 are configured to simulate different levels of cyanosis in the patient simulator 1102. In connection with the foregoing, the degree of cyanosis is determined by the control system 1104 and / or the user of the control system 1104 in some embodiments. The degree of cyanosis may tend to increase and / or decrease based on various parameters including the effectiveness of the given treatment. In some embodiments, this trend is controlled manually via control system 1104. In other embodiments, this trend is controlled, at least in part, by the physiological simulator software application of the control system 1104.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes an intubation module 1194. Intubation module 1194 is configured to monitor intubation of patient simulator 1102. In connection with the foregoing, the appropriate intubation depth for the patient simulator 1102 depends on the size and / or age of the patient simulator. In connection with the foregoing, the intubation module 1194 is coupled to a specific size patient simulator to determine the appropriate intubation depth. In some embodiments, the intubation module 1194 uses an optical sensor to monitor the depth of the intubation tube within the trachea of the patient simulator 1102. In some embodiments, the intubation module 1194 uses a pair of optical sensors spaced apart from each other to define an acceptable range of intubation depth. A first optical sensor is used to detect the presence of the intubation tube when the start of an acceptable range of depth is reached. A second optical sensor is used to detect when the intubation tube has advanced beyond an acceptable range of depth. In some embodiments, the patient simulator 1102 also includes a reverse breathing valve module 1196 and a bypass breathing valve module 1198.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes a right arm exercise module 1200 and a left arm exercise module 1202. The left and right arm movement modules 1200 and 1202 are configured to activate left and right arm movements of the simulator 1102. In some embodiments, the left and right arm modules 1200 and 1202 are particularly suitable for use in a newborn size simulator. In some embodiments, the left and right arm movement modules 1200 and 1202 have air modules that are used to inflate and deflate the air bag to which the simulator arms are connected. In connection with the foregoing, in some examples, the air bag has an accordion bag so that when the bag is filled with air, it inflates outward with a predetermined profile. The simulator arm moves by inflating and deflating the bag with the module. Coupled to the bag is, in some examples, a pivot assembly positioned adjacent to the elbow of the simulator. In one particular embodiment, the inflation and deflation of the bag causes the simulator arm to bend or straighten via the pivot assembly. Because arm movement is actuated by inflation and deflation of the air module and air bag, the user can inflict physical damage to the simulator as opposed to some mechanically actuated systems. Arm movement can be suppressed. In some embodiments, the arm motion module is configured to activate a mechanical system or motor to move the simulator arm. In some embodiments, the mechanical system may include a safety device to prevent damage to the arm motion module and related components if and when the intended arm motion is suppressed by the user. including.

  In some embodiments, the patient simulator 1102 includes left and right leg motion modules that operate in a manner similar to the arm motion module. In connection with the foregoing, the left and right leg motion module is configured to activate left and right leg motion of the simulator 1102. In some embodiments, the left and right leg motion modules are particularly suitable for use in a neonatal size simulator. In some embodiments, the left and right leg motion modules have air modules that are used to inflate and deflate the air bag to which the simulator legs are connected. In connection with the foregoing, in some examples, the air bag has an accordion bag so that when the bag is filled with air, it inflates outward with a predetermined profile. The legs of the simulator are moved by inflating and deflating the bag with the module. Coupled to the bag, in some instances, is a pivot assembly positioned adjacent to the knee of the simulator. In one particular embodiment, the inflation and deflation of the bag causes the simulator leg to bend or straighten via the pivot assembly. Because the leg movement is activated by the inflation and deflation of the air module and air bag, the user can inflict physical damage to the simulator as opposed to some mechanically actuated systems. Leg movement can be suppressed. In some embodiments, the leg motion module is configured to activate a mechanical system or motor for moving the legs of the simulator. In some embodiments, the mechanical system may include a safety device to prevent damage to the leg motion module and related components when and when the intended leg motion is suppressed by the user. including.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes a rotation module 1204. The rotation module 1204 is configured to rotate the fetus or baby in the maternal simulator. In particular, the rotation module 1204 is configured to operate a motor or other device for controlling the baby's rotation as the baby passes through the maternal simulator's birth canal. Patient simulator 1102 also includes a load cell module 1206. In some embodiments, the load cell module is positioned on the delivery mechanism of the maternal simulator and is configured to monitor the amount of pressure being applied to the baby during childbirth. In connection with the foregoing, the load cell module is positioned in some embodiments adjacent to the point where the baby is attached to the delivery mechanism. In other embodiments, the load cell module is positioned within the baby or on the baby itself. In general, the signal generated by the load cell is communicated to the control system 1104 via the master module 1106. Based on the sensed pressure or force on the load cell, a determination can be made as to whether the amount of force being used in removing the baby from the birth canal is within a desired range.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes abdominal pressure module 1208. Abdominal pressure module 1208 is used to control the stiffness of the maternal simulator abdomen. In connection with the foregoing, the abdominal pressure module 1208 is configured to sense the amount of pressure within the maternal abdomen. Based on the desired pressure, the abdominal pressure module 1208 determines whether the abdominal pressure should be increased, decreased, or maintained as it is. If the pressure is to be increased, the abdominal pressure module 1208 activates the flow of air through the air valve to the abdomen. In some embodiments, the abdominal pressure module 1208 is in communication with an air reservoir or compressor to provide air flow to the abdomen. If the pressure is to be reduced, the abdominal pressure module 1208 activates the release of air from the abdomen. In some examples, control system 1104 provides the desired pressure. In connection with the foregoing, a user or teacher can define abdominal pressure via control system 1104 in some embodiments.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes a baby release module 1210. Baby release module 1210 is configured to selectively release the baby from a delivery mechanism in the maternal simulator. In this regard, the baby release module 1210 is remotely activated by the user or teacher via the control system 1104 in some examples. In other examples, the baby release module 1210 is activated based on the delivery mechanism and / or the position of the baby within the birth canal. That is, once the baby reaches a certain position and / or orientation relative to the birth canal, the baby release module is activated to release the engagement between the delivery mechanism and the baby.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes a tongue control module 1212. The tongue control module 1212 is an air module configured to selectively inflate and / or contract the tongue to partially obstruct the airway of the simulator 1102. In this regard, the tongue control module 1212 is controlled via the control system 1104 in some examples. Thus, the user or teacher can partially obstruct the airway or remove obstructions as desired. Patient simulator 1102 also includes a laryngeal control module 1214 and a pharyngeal control module 1216. The laryngeal control module 1214 is configured to open and close the larynx to partially obstruct the simulator airway. Similarly, the pharyngeal control module 1216 is configured to prompt the posterior wall of the pharynx forward to partially obstruct the airway of the simulator 1102. The laryngeal control module 1214 and the pharyngeal control module 1216 are also controlled via the control system 1104 in some examples. Thus, the user or teacher can also partially obstruct the airways or remove obstructions as desired with these features.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes a pneumothorax module 1218 and a pneumothorax release module 1220. The pneumothorax module 1218 is configured to simulate the presence of pneumothorax (lung collapse) in the left or right lung. The pneumothorax release module 1220 is configured to return the simulator 1102 to a normal lung condition without pneumothorax. The initiation and relaxation of the pneumothorax state is controlled via the control system 1104.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes an eye module 1222. The eye module 1222 is configured to control the simulated eyes of the patient including blinking and pupil dilation. The eye module 1222 includes a plurality of modules to control these functions in some embodiments. See, for example, FIGS. 46-49 and the description accompanying one such embodiment. In some embodiments, the pupil dilation of each of the simulator's eyes is controlled based at least in part on the amount of light received by an optical sensor positioned within the eye. The maximum size of the pupil and / or the rate of pupil change or dilation is controlled by the control system 1104 in some examples. Similarly, the blink rate, pattern, and speed are controlled by the control system 1104 in some examples. In some examples, the blink rate ranges from 5 times per minute to 30 times per minute. However, in some embodiments, this external range is used. Furthermore, the eye can be maintained in an open position or a closed position. The blinking speed can be controlled as well. In some examples, the speed of each blink from opening to closing is approximately 200 ms. However, the blinking speed can be increased or decreased as desired in some embodiments.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes a right seizure module 1224 and a left seizure module 1226. Left and right seizure modules 1224 and 1226 are configured to simulate patient seizures on corresponding sides of the patient's body. Accordingly, seizure modules 1224 and 1226 are configured to cause tremors and / or convulsions in some embodiments. In some examples, seizure modules 1224 and 1226 are also used together to simulate a generalized seizure. In some examples, activation of seizure modules 1224 and 1226 is controlled via control system 1104.

  Patient simulator 1102 also includes a rotation module 1228 and a position module 1230. Rotation module 1228 and position module 1230 are configured to provide position data for babies in the maternal simulator's birth canal. In connection with the foregoing, rotation module 1228 and position module 1230 are specifically configured to monitor the relative rotation of the baby within the birth canal. In some embodiments, the rotation module 1228 is positioned on the delivery mechanism of the maternal simulator, and the position module 1230 is positioned within a portion of the baby. In some examples, the position module 1230 is positioned within the baby's head. Baby rotation is determined by comparing the relative rotation of the position module 1230 on the baby with respect to the rotation module 1228. In some examples, the rotation module 1230 is fixed substantially rotationally. Based on the relative rotation of module 1230 compared to module 1228, the rotational position of the baby can be determined. Rotation data from modules 1228 and 1230 is communicated to control system 1104 in some embodiments. In one such embodiment, the user or teacher uses the position information and rotation information to determine when to release the baby from the maternal simulator delivery mechanism. In other embodiments, the control system 1104 automatically releases the baby from the delivery mechanism based on the exact orientation and position of the baby in the birth canal. Patient simulator 1102 also includes an air module 1232. Air module 1232 is configured to control the pneumatically actuated portion of simulator 1102.

  Each of the various modules is connected to master module 1106 via power line 1234, ground line 1236, and bidirectional communication wire 1238. In connection with the foregoing, the master module 1106 can control the activation, deactivation, and power consumption of each of the modules. In some embodiments, the master module 1106 is controlled via a software program on the control system 1104. In other embodiments, the module is directly connected to the power supply. In some embodiments, the master module 1106 is wirelessly communicated to one or more modules. In some embodiments, the communication to one or more modules is a one-way communication. In some embodiments, the modules themselves are interconnected via communication wires 1238 or additional communication wires. In connection with the foregoing, in some examples, no master module acts as a master module for a subset of modules.

  Referring now to FIG. 30, a schematic diagram of a patient simulator 1250 is shown, incorporating aspects of the patient simulator system 1100 described above, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, patient simulator 1250 communicates with control system 1104 and power supply 1122.

  The patient simulator 1250 is particularly suitable for simulating childbirth sequences. In connection with the foregoing, the patient simulator 1250 includes a maternal simulator in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the patient simulator 1250 has a fetal simulator coupled to it to perform a simulated childbirth. The patient simulator 1250 includes a plurality of modules for performing various functions of the simulator. In some embodiments, each of the modules controls a specific function or group of functions of the simulator 1250. In connection with the foregoing, the modules are appropriately sized for positioning within various portions of the simulator 1250. In some embodiments, the module is positioned throughout the simulator adjacent to a region or area of the simulator 1250 that is associated with a particular function of the module or an associated body portion of the simulator. Thus, the modules are not distributed on a single motherboard but distributed throughout the simulator. In some embodiments, each of the modules communicates with a master module 1252. In some embodiments, the master module 1252 is configured to provide and control power delivered to the module and facilitate communication with and within the module.

  In this embodiment, patient simulator 1250 is shown in wireless communication with control system 1104. In connection with the foregoing, patient simulator 1250 includes a wireless communication module 1254 and an antenna 1256 similar to those described above with respect to FIG. Patient simulator 1250 also includes a power supply 1258. In the present embodiment, the power supply device 1258 is a rechargeable battery. In connection with the foregoing, power supply 1258 is connected to charger 1260. The charger 1260 is configured to recharge the power supply 1258. In connection with the foregoing, charger 1260 is configured to communicate with external power supply device 1122. In the present embodiment, the external power supply device 1122 is a wall outlet or a standard line power supply device. In other embodiments, the external power supply 1122 can wirelessly connect to the charger 1260 or the power supply 1258 so that the power supply can be wirelessly recharged, for example, by inductive coupling or other wireless charging means. Configured to communicate. In some embodiments, the charger 1260 has a backup power supply.

  Patient simulator 1250 includes a voice module 1262. Voice module 1262 communicates with master module 1252, which in turn communicates with control system 1104. The voice module 1262 is an audio module configured to emit sound that simulates a patient's voice. In connection with the foregoing, the particular sound emitted by the voice module 1262 is controlled by the user through the control system 1104 in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the control system 1104 may store a plurality of stored data that may be selected from and played by the voice module 1262 as discussed in more detail above in connection with FIG. Sounds or pre-recorded sounds. In some embodiments, the control system 1104 is such that the user or teacher speaks into a microphone or other sound communication device coupled to the control system and the teacher's words or sounds are emitted from the voice module 1262. Communicate with voice module 1262. In some embodiments, user or teacher input may be conditioned using a voice amplifier or sound board to alter the sound of a voice emitted from the voice module 1262. For example, in some embodiments, the input sound is conditioned to simulate a hoarse voice patient, a patient with a closed airway, or other mental or physical condition of the patient. In connection with the foregoing, the teacher may selectively activate various types of audio conditioning based on the desired effect. Voice module 1262 and the corresponding voice simulation are used in some embodiments as part of a general medical scenario simulation.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes a heart sound module 1264. Heart sound module 1264 is an audio module configured to emit sound to simulate the natural sound of the patient's heart. In connection with the foregoing, the sound of the heart sound module 1264 is derived from the patient's heart rate and heart rhythm (eg, sinus, atrial tachycardia, multi-source atrial tachycardia, atrial flutter, atrial fibrillation, junction, Ventricular peculiar, ventricular tachycardia (single), ventricular tachycardia (multiple), supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular flutter, ventricular fibrillation, dead war period, systolic failure, left leg block, right leg block, second 1st AVB, 2nd AVB (Type I), 2nd AVB (Type II), 3rd AVB, Q wave myocardial infarction, ST elevation, ST decline, T wave reversal, atrial pacing, atrioventricular sequential pacing, One or more sounds are included to simulate a ventricular pacemaker (artificial) and / or other heart rhythm. Further, the heart sounds may be normal, distal, or absent, and may include systolic noise, S3 and / or S4. The control system 1104 and / or the user using the control system, in some embodiments, determines what heart sound is generated and at what speed the sound is generated. The sound generated by the heart sound module 1264 can be detected via the use of a stethoscope in some examples. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the heart sound module 1264, such as a speaker, is positioned within the simulator 1250 where there will be a real heart.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes lung sound modules 1266, 1268, 1270, 1272, 1274, 1278, 1280, and 1282. In particular, the lung sound module 1266 is used to simulate the right upper lung sound toward the front of the simulator 1250. The lung sound module 1268 is used to simulate the sound of the upper left lung toward the front of the simulator. The lung sound module 1270 is used to simulate the sound of the lower right lung toward the front of the simulator. The lung sound module 1272 is used to simulate the sound of the lower left lung toward the front of the simulator. The lung sound module 1274 is used to simulate the sound of the upper right lung toward the back of the simulator. The lung sound module 1278 is used to simulate the sound of the upper left lung toward the back of the simulator. The lung sound module 1280 is used to simulate the sound of the lower right lung toward the back of the simulator. The lung sound module 1282 is used to simulate the sound of the lower left lung toward the front of the simulator.

  Each of the lung sound modules 1266, 1268, 1270, 1272, 1274, 1278, 1280, and 1282 is an audio module configured to generate sounds to simulate the natural sounds of the patient's lungs. In connection with the foregoing, lung sound modules 1266, 1268, 1270, 1272, 1274, 1278, 1280, and 1282, in some embodiments, are configured to generate one or more of the following lung sounds: Normal: none, wheezing, inspiratory key sound, crackle, rail, and / or other lung sounds. In addition, the lung sound modules 1266, 1268, 1270, 1272, 1274, 1278, 1280, and 1282 are used to simulate, but are not limited to, normal, cousmaul, chain -Includes Stokes, Bio, sustained inspiration, and / or other breathing patterns. A combination of lung sound modules 1266, 1268, 1270, 1272, 1274, 1278, 1280, and 1282 is also used to simulate the patient's respiratory rate. In connection with the foregoing, the respiration rate may be set to a constant rate and / or may be set to change over time.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes a valve array module 1276. The valve array module includes a plurality of air valves and is configured to control aspects of the respiratory system. In some embodiments, the valve array module 1276 is configured to control the simulation of a pneumothorax condition in the left or right lung of the simulator 1250.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes a K sound module 1284 for the right arm of the simulator and a K sound module 1286 for the left arm of the simulator. Each of the K sound modules 1284 and 1286 is configured to generate a simulated K sound (Korotkoff sound). In connection with the foregoing, in some embodiments, K sound modules 1284 and 1286 are used to allow the user to measure the blood pressure of the patient simulator 1250. Thus, the K sounds generated by modules 1284 and 1286 are determined based on the simulated heart rate and blood pressure. In some examples, the heart rate and blood pressure of the patient simulator 1250 are provided by the user or teacher via the control system 1104.

  The patient simulator 1250 also includes a uterine audio module 1288 to simulate fetal sounds in the maternal uterus. In some embodiments, the uterine audio module 1148 is configured to simulate the fetal heartbeat in the uterus. The patient simulator also includes a pupil dilation module 1290. The pupil dilation module 1290 is configured to control dilation of the pupil of the simulator eye. In some embodiments, the dilation of each pupil of the simulator eye is controlled based at least in part on the amount of light received by the optical sensor positioned within the eye. Further, the maximum pupil size and / or the rate of pupil change or dilation is controlled by the control system 1104 in some examples. In some examples, pupil dilation parameters are selected to simulate a particular medical condition.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes a compression module 1292. The compression module 1292 is configured to monitor the force of chest compression applied to the simulator 1250. In connection with the foregoing, the compression module 1292 is configured to monitor the applied pressure and, based on the pressure, determine whether the pressure is too high, too low, or within a desired range. Is done. The compression module 1292 communicates with the master module 1252 to relay the determination of whether the correct pressure is being applied to the control system 1104. In some embodiments, the simulator 1250 goes to recovery or further complications based on whether the correct pressure is being applied. For example, if chest compression is within the desired range of pressure, the patient simulator may show signs of recovery. On the other hand, if chest compression is outside the desired range of pressure, the patient simulator may develop additional problems or symptoms and / or make it more difficult for the simulator to recover from the current symptoms. Sometimes.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes a right lung valve 1294, a left lung valve 1296, and a breathing valve 1298. Together, right lung valve 1294, left lung valve 1296, and breathing valve 1298 control the flow of air into and out of the lungs of simulator 1250. In connection with the foregoing, each of the valves 1294, 1296, and 1298 has an air valve. In some embodiments, a breathing valve 1298 is used to control the breathing rate of the simulator 1250. In connection with the foregoing, the breathing valve 1298 opens and closes in order for the lungs to expand and contract at the desired rate. The right lung valve 1294 and the left lung valve 1296 are used to selectively disable the right and / or left lung, respectively. Thus, in some embodiments, when the right lung valve 1294 is open, the three-way air pilot valve is closed so that air cannot flow from the breathing valve into the right lung. In such an example, air flows only from the breathing valve into the left lung. The left lung valve 1296 operates in a similar manner in some embodiments. Factors such as lung invalidation, respiratory rate, breathing pattern, inspiration rate, and / or left or right lung invalidation may be based on signals received from the control system 1104 via the master module 1252. Controlled by 1294, 1296, and 1298.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes an ECG module 1300 or a rhythm emulator. The ECG module is configured to emit electrical signals that simulate the electrical activity of the heart of simulator 1250. In some embodiments, the ECG module is configured to provide a signal associated with each of the 12 leads such that the 12 lead ECG signal is available to the user. In some embodiments, the ECG module 1300 is configured to emit a signal that simulates the presence of myocardial infarction in various parts of the heart. In some embodiments, the location of the myocardial infarction is selected via the control system 1104. Accordingly, the ECG module is used to train the user to identify the onset of heart attacks and / or related symptoms that are identifiable via the ECG. The electrical signal of the ECG module can be detected by standard ECG equipment.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes a delivery motor module 1302. A delivery motor module 1302 is used to control delivery of the fetus or baby from the simulator 1250. In connection with the foregoing, the delivery motor module 1302 is used to control the position of the baby in the maternal simulator. Upon activation by the delivery motor module 1302, the delivery mechanism prompts the baby from the maternal uterus. In some embodiments, the delivery mechanism delivers the baby at least partially from the maternal uterus and the user completes the delivery of the baby. In some embodiments, the delivery mechanism rotates the baby as it passes through the birth canal.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes a ventilation module 1304. The ventilation module 1304 is configured to monitor the use of a ventilation device applied to the simulator 1250. The ventilator is, in some examples, a bag valve mask. In another example, the ventilator is the user's mouth, such as in mouse-to-mouse resuscitation. The ventilation module 1304 is configured to monitor the pressure applied by the ventilator and based on the pressure, determine whether the pressure is too high, too low, or within a desired range. The ventilation module 1304 communicates with the master module 1252 to relay the determination of whether the correct pressure is being applied to the control system 1104. In some embodiments, the simulator 1250 goes to recovery or further complications based on whether the correct pressure is being applied. For example, if ventilation is within the desired range of pressure, the patient simulator may show signs of recovery. On the other hand, if the ventilation is outside the desired range of pressure, the patient simulator may develop additional problems or symptoms and / or make it more difficult for the simulator to recover from the current symptoms. There is also.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes a femoral artery pulsation module 1306. The femoral artery pulsation module 1306 is an air module for simulating the femoral artery pulsation of the simulator 1250. Patient simulator 1250 also includes a right foot beat module 1308 and a left foot beat module 1310. The left and right foot beat modules 1308, 1310 are configured to simulate the foot beats of the simulator 1250. In connection with the foregoing, in some embodiments, the foot beat modules 1308, 1310 are electrical modules configured to simulate foot beats. In other embodiments, the foot beat modules 1308, 1310 are air modules configured to simulate foot beats. Patient simulator 1250 also includes a right radial artery pulsation module 1312 and a left radial artery pulsation module 1314. The left and right radial artery pulsation modules 1312, 1314 are air modules for simulating the radial artery pulsation of the simulator 1250. The patient simulator 1250 also includes a palpable pulse module 1316.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes eyelid module 1318. The eyelid module 1318 is configured to control the simulated eye blink of the patient. The blink rate, pattern, and speed are controlled by the control system 1104 in some examples. In some examples, the blink rate ranges from 5 times per minute to 30 times per minute. In other embodiments, this external range is used. Furthermore, the eye can be maintained in an open position or a closed position. The blinking speed can be controlled as well. In some examples, the elapsed time or speed of each blink from open to closed is approximately 200 ms. However, the blinking speed can be increased or decreased as desired in some embodiments.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes an encoder module 1320 and an encoder module 1336. Encoder modules 1320 and 1336 are configured to provide position data for babies in the maternal simulator's birth canal. In connection with the foregoing, encoder modules 1320 and 1336 are configured to monitor the relative rotation of the baby in the birth canal in some examples. In some embodiments, the encoder module 1336 is positioned in the delivery mechanism of the maternal simulator and the encoder module 1320 is positioned in a portion of the baby or fetal simulator. In some examples, the encoder module 1320 is positioned within the baby's head. Baby rotation is determined by comparing the relative rotation of encoder module 1320 on the baby with respect to encoder module 1336. In some examples, module 1336 is substantially rotationally fixed. Based on the relative rotation of module 1320 compared to module 1336, the baby's rotational position can be determined. In some embodiments, modules 1320 and 1336 are optical devices. Rotation data from modules 1320 and 1336 is communicated to control system 1104 in some embodiments. In one such embodiment, the user or teacher uses the position information and rotation information to determine when to release the baby from the maternal simulator delivery mechanism. In other embodiments, the control system 1104 automatically releases the baby from the delivery mechanism based on the exact orientation and position of the baby in the birth canal.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes a left blood pressure cuff module 1322 and a right blood pressure cuff module 1324. Left and right blood pressure cuff modules 1322 and 1324 are pressure modules configured to allow the user to measure the simulated blood pressure of patient simulator 1250. The blood pressure cuff modules 1322 and 1324 are configured to be used with a standard blood pressure monitor in some embodiments.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes a baby release module 1326. Baby release module 1326 is configured to selectively release the baby from the delivery mechanism in the maternal simulator. In that regard, the baby release module 1326 is remotely activated by the user or teacher via the control system 1104 in some examples. In other examples, the baby release module 1326 is activated based on the delivery mechanism and / or the position of the baby within the birth canal. That is, once the baby reaches a certain position and / or orientation relative to the birth canal, the baby release module is activated to release the engagement between the delivery mechanism and the baby.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes a plurality of color change modules 1328, 1330, and 1332. In connection with the foregoing, the color change module 1328 is configured to control the color change around the lips of the simulator 1250. The color change module 1330 is configured to control the color change around the fingers of the simulator. Color change module 1332 is configured to control color changes around the toes of the simulator. The color change modules 1328, 1330, and 1332 are used in some embodiments to simulate the patient simulator cyanosis. Accordingly, the color change modules 1328, 1330, and 1332 are configured to simulate different levels of cyanosis in the patient simulator 1250. In connection with the foregoing, the degree of cyanosis is determined by the control system 1104 and / or the user of the control system 1104 in some embodiments. The degree of cyanosis may tend to increase and / or decrease based on various parameters including the effectiveness of the given treatment. In some embodiments, this trend is controlled manually via control system 1104. In other embodiments, this trend is controlled, at least in part, by the physiological simulator software application of the control system 1104.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes an intubation module 1334. Intubation module 1334 is configured to monitor intubation of patient simulator 1250. In connection with the foregoing, the appropriate intubation depth for the patient simulator 1250 depends on the size and / or age of the patient simulator. In connection with the foregoing, a specific size patient simulator is coupled to the intubation module 1334 to determine the appropriate intubation depth. In some embodiments, the intubation module 1334 uses optical sensors to monitor the depth of the intubation tube within the trachea of the patient simulator 1250. In some embodiments, the intubation module 1334 uses a pair of optical sensors spaced apart from each other to define an acceptable range of intubation depth. A first optical sensor is used to detect the presence of the intubation tube when the start of an acceptable range of depth is reached. A second optical sensor is used to detect when the intubation tube has advanced beyond an acceptable range of depth. In some embodiments, the patient simulator 1250 also includes an air module 1338 for controlling the pneumatic device of the simulator.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes a right arm motion module 1340 and a left arm motion module 1342. The left and right arm movement modules 1340 and 1342 are configured to activate left and right arm movements of the simulator 1250. In some embodiments, left and right arm modules 1340 and 1342 are used in a fetal simulator. In other embodiments, left and right arm modules 1340 and 1342 are used for both the maternal simulator and fetal simulator. In some embodiments, the left and right arm motion modules 1340 and 1342 have air modules that are used to inflate and deflate the air bag to which the simulator arms are connected. In connection with the foregoing, in some examples, the air bag has an accordion bag so that when the bag is filled with air, it inflates outward with a predetermined profile. The simulator arm moves by inflating and deflating the bag with the module. Coupled to the bag is, in some examples, a pivot assembly positioned adjacent to the elbow of the simulator. In one particular embodiment, the inflation and deflation of the bag causes the simulator arm to bend or straighten via the pivot assembly. Because arm movement is actuated by inflation and deflation of the air module and air bag, the user can inflict physical damage to the simulator as opposed to some mechanically actuated systems. Arm movement can be suppressed. In some embodiments, the arm motion module is configured to activate a mechanical system or motor to move the simulator arm. In some embodiments, the mechanical system may include a safety device to prevent damage to the arm motion module and related components if and when the intended arm motion is suppressed by the user. including.

  Patient simulator 1250 also includes a rotation module 1344. The rotation module 1344 is configured to rotate the fetus or baby in the maternal simulator. In particular, the rotation module 1344 is configured to operate a motor or other device for controlling the baby's rotation as the baby passes through the maternal simulator's birth canal. Patient simulator 1250 also includes a load cell module 1346. In some embodiments, the load cell module is positioned on the delivery mechanism of the maternal simulator and is configured to monitor the amount of pressure being applied to the baby during childbirth. In connection with the foregoing, the load cell module is positioned in some embodiments adjacent to the point where the baby is attached to the delivery mechanism. In other embodiments, the load cell module is positioned within the baby or on the baby itself. In general, the signal generated by the load cell is communicated to the control system 1104 via the master module 1252. Based on the sensed pressure or force on the load cell, a determination can be made as to whether the amount of force being used in removing the baby from the birth canal is within a desired range.

  Finally, patient simulator 1250 also includes abdominal pressure module 1348. Abdominal pressure module 1348 is used to control the stiffness of the maternal simulator abdomen. In connection with the foregoing, the abdominal pressure module 1348 is configured to sense the amount of pressure within the maternal abdomen. Based on the desired pressure, the abdominal pressure module 1348 determines whether the abdominal pressure should be increased, decreased, or maintained as it is. If the pressure is to be increased, the abdominal pressure module 1348 activates the flow of air through the air valve to the abdomen. In some embodiments, the abdominal pressure module 1348 is in communication with an air reservoir or compressor to provide air flow to the abdomen. If the pressure is to be reduced, the abdominal pressure module 1348 activates the release of air from the abdomen. In some examples, control system 1104 provides the desired pressure. In connection with the foregoing, a user or teacher can define abdominal pressure via control system 1104 in some embodiments.

  Each of the various modules of simulator 1250 is connected to master module 1252 via a power line, a ground line, and / or a bidirectional communication wire. Thus, the master module 1252 is used to control module activation, deactivation, and power consumption in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the master module 1252 is controlled or directed via the control system 1104 software program. In some embodiments, the master module 1252 is wirelessly communicated to one or more modules. In some embodiments, the modules themselves are interconnected via communication wires or additional communication wires. In connection with the foregoing, in some examples, no master module acts as a master module for a subset of modules.

  In some embodiments, the patient simulator 1250 also includes a compressor. A compressor is used to provide a compressed air supply to the various pneumatic devices and modules of the simulator 1250. For example, in some embodiments, a compressor is used in a module for simulating lungs, pulses, contractions, abdominal pressure, seizures, eye dilation, blinking, and / or other aspects of the patient simulator 1250. Provide air. In some embodiments, the compressor provides compressed air to one or more reservoirs or accumulators which are then connected to various air modules of the simulator 1250. In connection with the foregoing, the air reservoir may maintain different air pressures so that different air modules are connected to the air reservoir at the appropriate air pressure for that application. In some examples, an air module of a patient simulator 1250 that uses a compressor is configured to run at relatively low air pressure, eg, less than 10 psi in some embodiments and less than 5 psi in other embodiments. Is done. In some examples, simulator 1250 includes two accumulators, one of which maintains an air pressure of approximately 5 psi and the other accumulator maintains an air pressure of approximately 1 psi. In other embodiments, the accumulator maintains other air pressures. In general, however, the patient simulator 1250 and its associated components are configured to operate at low pressure, which helps prevent water from being introduced into the simulator to which the high pressure system is coupled. The consequence of using a high-pressure system, but if water is introduced into the simulator, it can damage the simulator, increasing maintenance costs and removing or limiting the amount of water in the simulator. Requires additional components to do.

  Further, the compressor is sized to fit completely within the simulator 1250 in some embodiments. In connection with the foregoing, the compressor operates quietly so as not to interfere with other simulation aspects of the simulator 1250, particularly audible simulation aspects. Thus, in some examples, a silencing system is used to minimize the noise generated by the compressor. The silencing system is used in some embodiments on the input side, output side, and / or both sides of the compressor. Further, the compressor is self-cooling in some examples. In one such embodiment, the compressor includes a plurality of metal pipes surrounding at least the compressor motor through which the intake air proceeds. The intake air that travels through the metal pipe helps dissipate the heat generated by the compressor. Thus, the compressor can operate entirely within the simulator 1250 without overheating or disturbing other simulation aspects of the simulator. This allows the simulator 1250 to be fully functional without being attached to a noisy external high pressure compressor.

  Referring now to FIG. 31, a schematic diagram of a patient simulator 1350 incorporating aspects of the patient simulator system 1100 described above and according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. For example, patient simulator 1350 is in communication with control system 1104 and power source 1122. Patient simulator 1350 is approximately 5 years in size in some embodiments. Patient simulator 1350 includes a plurality of modules for performing various functions of the simulator. In some embodiments, each of the modules controls a specific function or group of functions of the simulator 1350. In connection with the foregoing, the module is appropriately sized for positioning within various portions of the simulator 1350. In some embodiments, the module is positioned throughout the simulator adjacent to a region or area of the simulator 1350 associated with a particular function of the module or an associated body portion of the simulator. Thus, the modules are not distributed on a single motherboard but distributed throughout the simulator. In some embodiments, each of the modules communicates with a master module 1352. In some embodiments, the master module 1352 is configured to provide and control power delivered to the module and facilitate communication with and within the module.

  In this embodiment, patient simulator 1350 is shown in wireless communication with control system 1104. In connection with the foregoing, patient simulator 1350 includes a wireless communication module 1354 and an antenna 1356 similar to those described above in connection with FIGS. Patient simulator 1350 also includes a power supply 1358. In the present embodiment, the power supply device 1238 is a rechargeable battery. In connection with the foregoing, power supply 1358 is connected to charger 1360. The charger 1360 is configured to recharge the power supply 1358. In connection with the foregoing, charger 1360 is configured to communicate with external power supply 1122. In the present embodiment, the external power supply device 1122 is a wall outlet or a standard line power supply device. In other embodiments, the external power supply 1122 can wirelessly connect to the charger 1360 or the power supply 1358 so that the power supply can be wirelessly recharged, eg, by inductive coupling or other wireless charging means. Configured to communicate. In some embodiments, the charger 1360 has a backup power supply.

  Patient simulator 1350 includes a voice module 1362. Voice module 1362 communicates with master module 1352, which in turn communicates with control system 1104. Voice module 1362 is an audio module configured to emit sound that simulates a patient's voice. In connection with the foregoing, the particular sound produced by voice module 1362 is controlled by the user through control system 1104 in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the control system 1104 has a plurality of stored that may be selected from and reproduced by the voice module 1362 as discussed above in more detail with respect to FIG. Includes sounds or pre-recorded sounds. In some embodiments, the control system 1104 is such that a user or teacher speaks into a microphone or other sound communication device coupled to the control system and the teacher's words or sounds are emitted from the voice module 1362. Communicate with voice module 1362. In some embodiments, user or teacher input may be conditioned using a voice amplifier or sound board to alter the sound of a voice emitted from the voice module 1362. For example, in some embodiments, the input sound is conditioned to simulate a hoarse voice patient, a patient with a closed airway, or other mental or physical condition of the patient. In connection with the foregoing, the teacher may selectively activate various types of audio conditioning based on the desired effect. Voice module 1362 and the corresponding voice simulation are used in some embodiments as part of a general medical scenario simulation.

  Patient simulator 1350 also includes a heart sound module 1364. Heart sound module 1364 is an audio module configured to emit sound to simulate the natural sound of the patient's heart. In connection with the foregoing, the sound of the heart sound module 1364 is derived from the patient's heart rate and heart rhythm (eg, sinus, atrial tachycardia, multi-source atrial tachycardia, atrial flutter, atrial fibrillation, junction, Ventricular peculiar, ventricular tachycardia (single), ventricular tachycardia (multiple), supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular flutter, ventricular fibrillation, dead war period, systolic failure, left leg block, right leg block, second 1st AVB, 2nd AVB (Type I), 2nd AVB (Type II), 3rd AVB, Q wave myocardial infarction, ST rise, ST decline, T wave reversal, atrial pacing, atrioventricular sequential pacing, One or more sounds are included to simulate a ventricular pacemaker (artificial) and / or other heart rhythm. Further, the heart sounds may be normal, distal, or absent, and may include systolic noise, S3 and / or S4. The control system 1104 and / or the user using the control system, in some embodiments, determines what heart sound is generated and at what speed the sound is generated. The sound generated by the heart sound module 1364 can be detected via the use of a stethoscope in some examples. In some embodiments, at least a portion of heart sound module 1364, such as a speaker, is positioned in simulator 1350 where a real heart will be.

  Patient simulator 1350 also includes lung sound modules 1366, 1368, 1370, and 1372. In particular, the lung sound module 1366 is used to simulate the sound of the upper right lung toward the front of the simulator 1350. The lung sound module 1368 is used to simulate the sound of the upper left lung toward the front of the simulator. The lung sound module 1370 is used to simulate the sound of the upper left lung toward the back of the simulator. The lung sound module 1372 is used to simulate the sound of the upper right lung toward the back of the simulator. Each of the lung sound modules 1366, 1368, 1370, and 1372 is an audio module configured to generate sounds to simulate the natural sounds of the patient's lungs. In connection with the foregoing, lung sound modules 1366, 1368, 1370, and 1372 are, in some embodiments, configured to generate one or more of the following lung sounds: normal, none, wheezing, Inspiratory key sounds, crackles, rails, and / or other lung sounds. In addition, a combination of lung sound modules 1366, 1368, 1370, and 1372 are used to simulate respiratory patterns, including but not limited to normal, cousmaul, chain-stokes, bio, sustained absorption. Includes breath and / or other breathing patterns. A combination of lung sound modules 1366, 1368, 1370, and 1372 is also used to simulate the patient's respiratory rate. In connection with the foregoing, the respiration rate may be set to a constant rate and / or may be set to change over time.

  Patient simulator 1350 also includes an open module 1374 and a close module 1376. Opening and closing modules 1374 and 1376 are configured to control the simulated eye blink of the patient. In particular, the opening module 1374 is used to open the eyelid of the simulator and the closing module 1376 is used to close the eyelid. Thus, when the eyelid is open, the closure module 1376 is activated and then the opening module 1374 is activated to simulate the patient's blinking. The blink rate, pattern, and speed are controlled by the control system 1104 in some examples. In some examples, the blink rate ranges from 5 times per minute to 30 times per minute. In other embodiments, this external range is used. Furthermore, the eye can be maintained in an open position or a closed position. The blinking speed can be controlled as well. In some examples, the elapsed time or speed of each blink from open to closed is approximately 200 ms (eg, approximately 100 ms to close and approximately 100 ms to reopen). However, the blinking speed can be increased or decreased as desired in some embodiments.

  Patient simulator 1350 also includes a right lung valve 1378, a left lung valve 1380, and a breathing valve 1382. The right lung valve 1378, the left lung valve 1380, and the breathing valve 1382 together control the flow of air into and out of the simulator 1350's lungs. In connection with the foregoing, each of the valves 1378, 1380, and 1382 has an air valve. In some embodiments, the breathing valve 1382 is used to control the breathing rate of the simulator 1350. In connection with the foregoing, breathing valve 1382 opens and closes in order for the lungs to expand and contract at the desired rate. The right lung valve 1378 and the left lung valve 1380 are used to selectively disable the right and / or left lung, respectively. Thus, in some embodiments, when the right lung valve 1378 is open, the three-way air pilot valve is closed so that air cannot flow from the breathing valve into the right lung. In such an example, air flows only from the breathing valve into the left lung. The left lung valve 1380 operates in a similar manner in some embodiments. Factors such as lung invalidation, respiratory rate, breathing pattern, inspiration rate, and / or left or right lung invalidation may be based on signals received from the control system 1104 via the master module 1352. Controlled by 1378, 1380, and 1382.

  Patient simulator 1350 also includes an ECG module 1384 or a rhythm emulator. The ECG module is configured to emit electrical signals that simulate the electrical activity of the simulator 1350's heart. In some embodiments, the ECG module is configured to provide a signal associated with each of the 12 leads such that the 12 lead ECG signal is available to the user. In some embodiments, the ECG module 1300 is configured to emit a signal that simulates the presence of myocardial infarction in various parts of the heart. In some embodiments, the location of the myocardial infarction is selected via the control system 1104. Accordingly, the ECG module is used to train the user to identify the onset of heart attacks and / or related symptoms that are identifiable via the ECG. The electrical signal of the ECG module can be detected by standard ECG equipment.

  Patient simulator 1350 also includes a K sound module 1386 for the left arm of the simulator and a K sound module 1388 for the right arm of the simulator. Each of the K sound modules 1386 and 1388 is configured to generate a simulated K sound (Korotkoff sound). In connection with the foregoing, in some embodiments, K sound modules 1386 and 1388 are used to allow the user to measure the blood pressure of the patient simulator 1350. Thus, the K sounds generated by modules 1386 and 1388 are determined based on the simulated heart rate and blood pressure. In some examples, the heart rate and blood pressure of the patient simulator 1350 are provided by the user or teacher via the control system 1104.

  The patient simulator also includes a pupil dilation module 1390. The pupil dilation module 1390 is configured to control dilation of the pupil of the simulator eye. In some embodiments, the dilation of each pupil of the simulator eye is controlled based at least in part on the amount of light received by the optical sensor positioned within the eye. Further, the maximum pupil size and / or the rate of pupil change or dilation is controlled by the control system 1104 in some examples. In some examples, pupil dilation parameters are selected to simulate a particular medical condition.

  Patient simulator 1350 also includes a compression module 1392. The compression module 1392 is configured to monitor the chest compression force applied to the simulator 1350. In connection with the foregoing, the compression module 1392 is configured to monitor the applied pressure and based on the pressure, determine whether the pressure is too high, too low, or within a desired range. Is done. The compression module 1392 communicates with the master module 1352 to relay the determination of whether the correct pressure is being applied to the control system 1104. In some embodiments, the simulator 1350 goes to recovery or further complications based on whether the correct pressure is being applied. For example, if chest compression is within the desired range of pressure, the patient simulator may show signs of recovery. On the other hand, if chest compression is outside the desired range of pressure, the patient simulator may develop additional problems or symptoms and / or make it more difficult for the simulator to recover from the current symptoms. Sometimes.

  Patient simulator 1350 also includes a left foot beat module 1394 and a right foot beat module 1396. The left and right foot beat modules 1394, 1396 are configured to simulate the foot beats of the simulator 1350. In connection with the foregoing, in some embodiments, the foot beat modules 1394, 1396 are electrical modules configured to simulate foot beats. In other embodiments, foot beat modules 1394, 1396 are air modules configured to simulate foot beats. Patient simulator 1350 also includes a right radial artery beat module 1398 and a left radial artery beat 1400. The left and right radial artery pulsation modules 1398 and 1400 are air modules for simulating the radial artery pulsation of the simulator 1350.

  Patient simulator 1350 also includes an intubation module 1402. Intubation module 1402 is configured to monitor intubation of patient simulator 1350. In connection with the foregoing, the appropriate intubation depth for the patient simulator 1350 depends on the size and / or age of the patient simulator. Thus, in this embodiment where the simulator is approximately 5 years old, the intubation module 1402 is configured to determine the appropriate intubation depth for 5 years old. In some embodiments, the intubation module 1334 uses optical sensors to monitor the depth of the intubation tube within the trachea of the patient simulator 1350. In some embodiments, the intubation module 1334 uses a pair of optical sensors spaced apart from each other to define an acceptable range of intubation depth. A first optical sensor is used to detect the presence of the intubation tube when the start of an acceptable range of depth is reached. A second optical sensor is used to detect when the intubation tube has advanced beyond an acceptable range.

  Patient simulator 1350 also includes a ventilation module 1404. The ventilation module 1404 is configured to monitor the use of a ventilation device applied to the simulator 1350. The ventilator is, in some examples, a bag valve mask. In another example, the ventilator is the user's mouth, such as in mouse-to-mouse resuscitation. The ventilation module 1404 is configured to monitor the pressure applied by the ventilator and based on the pressure, determine whether the pressure is too high, too low, or within a desired range. The ventilation module 1404 communicates with the master module 1352 to relay the determination of whether the correct pressure is being applied to the control system 1104. In some embodiments, the simulator 1350 goes to recovery or further complications based on whether the correct pressure is being applied. For example, if ventilation is within the desired range of pressure, the patient simulator may show signs of recovery. On the other hand, if the ventilation is outside the desired range of pressure, the patient simulator may develop additional problems or symptoms and / or make it more difficult for the simulator to recover from the current symptoms. There is also.

  Patient simulator 1350 also includes a color change module 1406. The color change module 1406 is configured to control the color change around the lips of the simulator 1350. The color change module 1406 is used to simulate cyanosis in the patient simulator 1350 in some embodiments. Accordingly, the color change module 1406 is configured to simulate different levels of cyanosis in the patient simulator 1350. In connection with the foregoing, the degree of cyanosis is determined by the control system 1104 and / or the user of the control system 1104 in some embodiments. The degree of cyanosis may tend to increase and / or decrease based on various parameters including the effectiveness of the given treatment. In some embodiments, this trend is controlled manually via control system 1104. In other embodiments, this trend is controlled, at least in part, by the physiological simulator software application of the control system 1104.

  Patient simulator 1350 also includes a right blood pressure cuff module 1408 and a left blood pressure cuff module 1410. The left and right blood pressure cuff modules 1408 and 1410 are pressure modules configured to allow the user to measure the simulated blood pressure of the patient simulator 1350. The blood pressure cuff modules 1408 and 1410 are configured to be used with a standard blood pressure monitor in some embodiments.

  In some embodiments, the patient simulator 1350 also includes a compressor module 1412 for controlling the compressor of the simulator 1350. In general, a compressor is used to provide a compressed air supply to the various pneumatic devices and modules of the simulator 1350. For example, in some embodiments, a compressor is used to module for simulating lung, pulse, contraction, abdominal pressure, seizures, eye dilation, blinking, and / or other aspects of the patient simulator 1350. Provide air. In some embodiments, the compressor provides compressed air to one or more reservoirs or accumulators that are then connected to various air modules of the simulator 1350. In connection with the foregoing, the air reservoir may maintain different air pressures so that different air modules are connected to the air reservoir at the appropriate air pressure for that application. In some examples, an air module of a patient simulator 1350 that uses a compressor is configured to run at relatively low air pressure, for example, in some embodiments less than 10 psi and in other embodiments less than 5 psi. Is done. In some examples, simulator 1350 includes two accumulators, one of which maintains an air pressure of approximately 5 psi and the other accumulator maintains an air pressure of approximately 1 psi. In other embodiments, the accumulator maintains other air pressures. In general, however, the patient simulator 1350 and its associated components are configured to operate at low pressure, which helps prevent water from being introduced into the simulator to which the high pressure system is coupled. The consequence of using a high-pressure system, but if water is introduced into the simulator, it can damage the simulator, increasing maintenance costs and removing or limiting the amount of water in the simulator. Requires additional components to do.

Further, the compressor is sized to fit completely within the simulator 1350 in some embodiments. In connection with the foregoing, the compressor operates quietly so as not to interfere with other simulation aspects of the simulator 1350, particularly audible simulation aspects. Thus, in some examples, a silencing system is used to minimize the noise generated by the compressor. The silencing system is used in some embodiments on the input side, output side, and / or both sides of the compressor. Further, the compressor is self-cooling in some examples. In one such embodiment, the compressor includes a plurality of metal pipes surrounding at least the compressor motor through which the intake air proceeds. The intake air that travels through the metal pipe helps dissipate the heat generated by the compressor. Thus, the compressor can operate entirely within the simulator 1350 without overheating or disturbing other simulation aspects of the simulator. This allows the simulator 1350 to function fully without being attached to a noisy external high pressure compressor.
Each of the various modules of simulator 1350 is connected to master module 1252 via a power line, a ground line, and / or a bidirectional communication wire. Thus, the master module 1252 is used to control module activation, deactivation, and power consumption in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the master module 1252 is controlled or directed via the control system 1104 software program. In some embodiments, the master module 1252 is wirelessly communicated to one or more modules. In some embodiments, the modules themselves are interconnected via communication wires or additional communication wires. In connection with the foregoing, in some examples, no master module acts as a master module for a subset of modules.

  As described above, each of the simulators 1102, 1250, and 1350 has a plurality of modules that are each adapted to perform various functions of the simulator. In some embodiments, the different modules are similar modules programmed for different purposes. In connection with the foregoing, in some examples, multiple modules are derived from a common set of base modules. In some examples, the base module includes a master module, an interface module, an air module, an audio module, a sensor module, and a driver module. These various base modules are adapted or programmed for various specific purposes of the simulator and modules as described herein. In connection with the foregoing, it should be noted that the modules are made for the desired or intended function of the simulator and may include modules not specifically described herein. These base modules are described in more detail below.

  Referring now to FIG. 32, a schematic diagram of a master module 1420 for use in a patient simulator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In some examples, the master module 1420 is used as the master module 1106, 1252, and / or 1352 of the simulator described above. In connection with the foregoing, the master module 1420 is configured to interact with various modules of the simulator and control system. Specifically, the master module 1420 couples the various modules together and transfers information and signals between the various modules and between the module and the control system. In connection with the foregoing, the master module 1420 is configured to receive commands from the control system and relay these commands to the module. In some examples, communication between the master module 1420 and the control system is achieved in less than 100 ms so that control system commands are executed in near real time and on demand. Master module 1420 is configured to receive information from the module and / or monitor the module and relay the information to the control system. In connection with the foregoing, the master module 1420 constantly monitors and / or reads some of the sensor modules. The frequency of monitoring and / or reading is determined by the particular function being monitored. Some of the modules are monitored many times per second, while other modules are not monitored as often. Monitoring the module obtains sensor data (eg, amount of compression or ventilation) and general information about the module (eg, on / off, connected or not connected, etc.) from the module including. General information including the status and / or presence of the modules in the simulator is available to the user via a control system in some embodiments. In connection with the foregoing, the modules of the simulator are activated and deactivated via a control system in some examples.

  As shown in FIG. 32, the master module 1420 includes an input device 1422. Input device 1422 includes power supply input device 1424 and ground 1426. In some embodiments, the power supply input device 1424 is configured to receive power from a battery located in the simulator. Accordingly, the power supply input device 1424 is configured to receive DC power in such embodiments. In other embodiments, the power supply input device 1424 is configured to receive AC power, such as from a wall outlet. The master module 1420 also includes a low voltage regulator 1428 that regulates the power received from the power supply input device 1424. Master module 1420 also includes an output device 1430. The output device 1430 is used to connect the master module 1420 to other modules in the simulator. As discussed above, the connection between the master module 1420 and other modules includes a power supply, ground, and / or a two-way communication cable. Accordingly, the output device 1430 includes a power output device 1432, a ground 1434, and a communication output device 1436. The master module 1420 also includes a processor 1438 for handling various information requests, data transfers, and other functions performed by the master module. Finally, the master module 1420 includes a communication device 1440. In the present embodiment, the communication device 1440 includes an RF module. In other embodiments, the communication device 1440 may be any other type of communication module that facilitates communication with a control system including both wireless and wire communication systems.

  Referring now to FIG. 33, a schematic diagram of a communication module 1450 for use in a patient simulator system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The communication module 1450 is configured to communicate with the communication device 1440 of the master module 1420 in some embodiments. In connection with the foregoing, the communication device 1440 is configured to be used as part of or as a link to a control system. In this embodiment, the communication device 1440 includes an RF module 1452 for communicating with the RF module of the master module 1420. The communication device 1440 also includes a processor 1454 and an output device 1456. In some embodiments, the processor 1454 converts the signal received via the RF module 1452 into an output form for transmission from the output device 1456. In this embodiment, the output device 1456 is a USB connector that may or may be connected to the computer system of the control system.

  Referring now to FIG. 34, a schematic diagram of a communication module 1460 for use in a patient simulator system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The communication module 1460 is configured to communicate with the simulator master module 1462 in some embodiments. In connection with the foregoing, the communication device 1460 is configured to be used as part of or as a link to a control system. In the present embodiment, the communication device 1460 is connected to the master module 1462 by wiring via lines 1464, 1466, and 1468. In this embodiment, the communication device 1460 provides a USB output connector that may or may be connected to the computer system of the control system.

  Referring now to FIG. 35, a schematic diagram of an air module 1470 for use in a patient simulator system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Air module 1470 includes an input device 1472. Input device 1472 is configured to connect air module 1470 to a master module, such as, for example, master module 1420. In connection with the foregoing, input device 1472 includes power supply input device 1474, ground 1476, and communication input device 1478. Accordingly, the input device 1472 communicates with the output device 1430 of the master module 1420. The communication input device 1478 also acts as a communication output device for bidirectional communication between the air module 1470 and the master module 1420. Air module 1470 also includes a voltage regulator 1480 and a processor 1482. The processor 1482 is programmed differently depending on the specific function of the air module 1470. For example, in some examples, the air module 1470 may be a respiratory valve module, a lung valve module, a laryngeal module, a pharyngeal module, a pneumothorax module, a pneumothorax release module, a tongue module, an arm movement module, a baby release module, an eye blink module, Configured to act as an eye closure module, trend expansion module, seizure module, pulse module, color change module, abdominal valve module, and / or other modules used in the simulator. Depending on the programming of the processor 1482 and the signal received from the master module 1420, the output device 1484 of the air module 1470 opens or closes the associated valve.

  Referring now to FIG. 36, a schematic diagram of an audio module 1490 for use in a patient simulator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The audio module 1490 includes an input device 1492. Input device 1492 is configured to connect audio module 1490 to a master module, such as master module 1420. In connection with the foregoing, input device 1492 includes power supply input device 1494, ground 1496, and communication input device 1498. Accordingly, the input device 1492 communicates with the output device 1430 of the master module 1420. The communication input device 1498 also acts as a communication output device for bidirectional communication between the audio module 1490 and the master module 1420 in some embodiments. Audio module 1490 includes a voltage regulator 1500 and a voltage regulator 1502. Voltage regulator 1502 is configured to supply power to amplifier 1504, which drives an audio output device or speaker 1506. Audio module 1490 also includes an audio chip 1508 and a processor 1510. Audio chip 1508 and / or processor 1510 are programmed differently depending on the particular functionality of audio module 1490. For example, in some examples, the audio module 1490 is configured to act as a lung sound module, heart sound module, K sound module, voice module, uterine sound module, and / or other sound module used in a simulator. Is done. Audio chip 1508 and / or processor 1510 are configured for specific functions of audio module 1490. In some embodiments, the audio module 1490 includes a memory connected to an audio chip 1508 or processor 1510 that includes a plurality of pre-recorded sounds. The audio module 1470 selectively plays back pre-recorded sounds in such embodiments. In some embodiments, playing the pre-recorded sound is determined at least in part by a signal received from the control system via the master module 1420.

  Referring now to FIG. 37, a schematic diagram of a sensing module 1520 for use in a patient simulator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The detection module 1520 includes an input device 1522. Input device 1522 is configured to connect sensing module 1520 to a master module, such as master module 1420. In connection with the foregoing, input device 1522 includes power supply input device 1524, ground 1526, and communication input device 1528. Accordingly, the input device 1522 communicates with the output device 1430 of the master module 1420. The communication input device 1528 also acts as a communication output device for bidirectional communication between the sensing module 1520 and the master module 1420 in some embodiments. Sensing module 1520 includes a voltage regulator 1530 and a processor 1532. In some examples, voltage regulator 1530 is configured to provide power to amplifier 1534. Amplifier 1534 is used to amplify the signal received from sensor 1536 in some embodiments. In other embodiments, amplifier 1534 is used to drive sensor 1536. Sensor 1536 is used to monitor parameters related to various functions of the simulator. Thus, in some embodiments, sensor 1536 is a force sensor, load sensor, position sensor, optical sensor, temperature sensor, pH sensor, and / or other sensor for use in a simulator. In connection with the foregoing, amplifier 1534 and / or processor 1532 are programmed differently depending on the particular functionality of sensing module 1520. For example, in some examples, sensing module 1520 is used for a breathing valve module, blood pressure module, compressor module, ventilation module, compression module, load cell module, pulse module, other sensing module, and / or simulator. Configured to act as a part of

  Referring now to FIG. 38, a schematic diagram of a sensing driver module 1521 for use in a patient simulator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In some aspects, the detection driver module 1521 is similar to the detection module 1520 described above with respect to FIG. However, in addition to the detection mode of the detection module 1520, the detection driver module 1521 includes a driver 1538. In connection with the foregoing, the detection driver module 1521 is configured to drive or activate the device based on the detected parameters of the module. For example, in this embodiment, the driver 1538 is configured to drive a simulator compressor. In connection with the foregoing, the sensing driver module 1521 may be used to maintain the desired air pressure in the reservoir supplied by the compressor. Accordingly, the sensor 1536 can be used to monitor the pressure in the reservoir and activate the driver 1538 based on the detected pressure to adjust the pressure in the reservoir to the desired pressure. In connection with the foregoing, driver 1538 includes a first output device 1540 for starting the compressor to increase pressure and a second output device 1542 for decreasing pressure. In other embodiments, the driver 1538 drives devices other than compressors and includes mechanical actuators, pneumatic actuators, electrical actuators, and / or other components of the simulator. In connection with the foregoing, the sensing driver module 1520 is for use in a breathing valve module, blood pressure module, compressor module, ventilation module, compression module, load cell module, pulse module, other sensing driver module, and / or simulator. Configured to act as a part of

  Referring now to FIG. 39, a schematic diagram of an ECG module 1550 for use in a patient simulator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The ECG module 1550 includes an input device 1552. Input device 1552 is configured to connect ECG module 1550 to a master module, such as master module 1420. In connection with the foregoing, input device 1552 includes power supply input device 1554, ground 1556, and communication input device 1558. Accordingly, the input device 1552 communicates with the output device 1430 of the master module 1420. The communication input device 1558 also acts as a communication output device for bidirectional communication between the ECG module 1550 and the master module 1420 in some embodiments. ECG module 1550 includes a voltage regulator 1560 and a processor 1562. The ECG module 1550 is configured to generate electrical signals that simulate the electrical activity of the simulator's heart. In some embodiments, the ECG module is configured to provide a signal associated with each of the 12 leads such that a 12 lead ECG signal is provided by the simulator. In some embodiments, the ECG module is configured to emit a signal that mimics the presence of myocardial infarction in various parts of the heart. In some embodiments, the location of myocardial infarction is selected via a control system. The processor 1562 is programmed to perform each of the desired ECG simulations. The ECG module is used to train the user to identify the onset of heart attacks and / or related symptoms that are identifiable via the ECG. The electrical signal of the ECG module can be detected by standard ECG equipment. In some embodiments, the electrical signal of the ECG module is an analog signal. The ECG module 1550 also includes an input / output connector 1564. Input / output connector 1564 connects ECG module 1550 to a pacemaker / defibrillation module, such as pacemaker / defib module 1580 described in connection with FIG. 40 below. In general, input / output connector 1564 is configured to receive pacemaker information 1566 and defibrillation information 1568 from pacemaker / defibrillation module 1580 and output ECG data or signal 1570 to the pacemaker / defibrillation module.

  Referring now to FIG. 40, a schematic diagram of a pacemaker / defibrillation module 1580 for use in a patient simulator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The pacemaker / defibrillation module 1580 is configured to allow external pacing and defibrillation from the same location. The pacemaker / defibrillation module 1580 includes an input / output connector 1582. Input / output connector 1564 is configured to send pacemaker information 1566 and defibrillation information 1568 to ECG module 1550 and receive ECG data or signals 1570 from the ECG module. The pacemaker / defibrillation module 1580 is configured to simulate a patient's natural resistance. To that end, the pacemaker / defibrillation module 1580 includes a register 1584 sized to simulate patient resistance. In connection with the foregoing, the resistance of resistor 1584 may vary depending on the size, age and / or other characteristics of the simulator. The pacemaker / defibrillation module 1580 also includes a circuit 1586 for conditioning the analog signal produced by the pacemaker / defibrillation module 1580.

  Referring now to FIG. 41, a schematic diagram of a motor driver module 1590 for use in a patient simulator system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The motor driver module 1590 includes an input device 1592. Input device 1592 is configured to connect motor driver module 1590 to a master module, such as master module 1420. In connection with the foregoing, input device 1592 includes power supply input device 1594, ground 1596, and communication input device 1598. Accordingly, the input device 1592 communicates with the output device 1430 of the master module 1420. The communication input device 1598 also acts as a communication output device for bidirectional communication between the motor driver module 1590 and the master module 1420 in some embodiments. The motor driver module 1590 includes a voltage regulator 1600 and a processor 1602. The processor 1602 is programmed to control the drivers 1604 and 1606. Drivers 1604 and 1606 are configured to operate the motor. In connection with the foregoing, drivers 1604 and 1606 are configured to drive a motor for use in translation, rotation, and vibration. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the motor driver module 1590 is configured to be used as a delivery module, a rotation module, a seizure module, a vibration module, and / or other module to which a simulator motor is coupled. .

  Referring now to FIG. 42, a schematic diagram of an intubation module 1610 for use in a patient simulator system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Intubation module 1610 includes an input device 1612. Input device 1612 is configured to connect intubation module 1610 to a master module, such as master module 1420. In connection with the foregoing, input device 1612 includes power supply input device 1614, ground 1616, and communication input device 1618. Accordingly, the input device 1612 communicates with the output device 1430 of the master module 1420. Communication input device 1618 also acts as a communication output device for bidirectional communication between intubation module 1610 and master module 1420 in some embodiments. Intubation module 1610 includes a voltage regulator 1620 and a processor 1622. Intubation module 1610 is configured to monitor intubation of the patient simulator. In connection with the foregoing, the appropriate intubation depth for the patient simulator depends on the size and / or age of the patient simulator. Thus, in this embodiment, the intubation module 1610 includes a first pair of optical sensors 1624 and 1626 for monitoring intubation in babies and a second pair of optical sensors 1628 and 1630 for monitoring intubation in adults. And including. In other embodiments, other age simulators are described. Only a pair of optical sensors is activated. The pair to be activated is selected based on the size of the simulator in which the intubation module 1610 is used. In other embodiments, the intubation module 1610 includes only a single pair of optical sensors appropriately spaced for the size and / or age of the patient simulator. The intubation module 1610 uses optical sensors to monitor the depth of the intubation tube within the patient simulator trachea. In connection with the foregoing, optical sensors 1624 and 1628 are used to detect the presence of an intubation tube when the start or minimum of an acceptable range of depth is reached. Optical sensors 1626 and 1630 are used to detect when the intubation tube has advanced beyond the maximum acceptable range of intubation depth.

  Referring now to FIG. 43, a schematic diagram of an inflation / deflation module 1640 for use in a patient simulator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, the inflation / deflation module 1640 is used to simulate a pregnant maternal abdomen. The inflation / deflation module 1640 includes an input device 1642. Input device 1642 is configured to connect inflation / deflation module 1640 to a master module, such as master module 1420. In connection with the foregoing, input device 1642 includes power supply input device 1644, ground 1646, and communication input device 1648. Accordingly, the input device 1642 communicates with the output device 1430 of the master module 1420. The communication input device 1648 also acts as a communication output device for bidirectional communication between the inflation / deflation module 1640 and the master module 1420 in some embodiments. The inflation / deflation module 1640 includes a pressure sensing module 1650, an inflation module 1652, and a deflation module 1654. Inflation and deflation modules 1652 and 1654 have air valves in some embodiments. The inflation / deflation module 1640 is configured to monitor the pressure in the simulator reservoir using the pressure sensing module 1650 and then adjust the pressure to the desired pressure using the inflation and deflation modules 1652 and 1654. The

  Referring now to FIG. 44, a schematic diagram of a patient simulator system 1700 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Patient simulator system 1700 includes patient simulator 1702 and control system 1104. The control system 1104 may be substantially similar to the control system described above in connection with FIG. Patient simulator 1702 includes a plurality of modules to perform various functions of the simulator. In some embodiments, each of the modules controls a specific function or group of functions of the simulator 1702. In connection with the foregoing, the module is appropriately sized for positioning within various portions of the simulator 1702. In some embodiments, the module is positioned throughout the simulator adjacent to an area or area of the simulator 1702 that is associated with a particular function of the module or with an associated body portion of the simulator. Thus, the modules are not distributed on a single motherboard but distributed throughout the simulator. In some embodiments, each of the modules communicates with a master module 1706. In some embodiments, the master module 1706 is configured to provide and control power delivered to the module and facilitate communication with and within the module.

  In this embodiment, patient simulator 1702 is shown in wireless communication with control system 1104. In connection with the foregoing, patient simulator 1702 includes a wireless communication module 1708 and an antenna 1710. Wireless communication module 1708 and antenna 1710 communicate with antenna 1112 and wireless communication module 1114 of control system 1104. In this embodiment, the wireless communication module 1114 is connected to or in communication with the computer system 1116. In connection with the foregoing, computer system 1116 is, in some examples, a laptop or tablet computer. In general, computer system 1116 or control system 1104 is generally a combination of hardware and software that can control or define various factors and / or functions of patient simulator 1702 through master module 1706.

  In accordance with the present disclosure, various modules may be combined to create a simulator with specific features as desired by the customer or user. In this way, some or all of the modules included in the patient simulator 1702 may be selected based on the intended use of the simulator. The nature of the module allows the simulator 1702 to include the combination features that the customer initially desires, but also allows the customer to add additional features or to invalidate the included features later. One particular combination of modules available for use in the simulator 1702 will now be described. However, it is not intended to be limited thereby. In connection with the foregoing, it is understood that a patient simulator according to the present disclosure may include additional combinations of modules, fewer combinations, or other combinations. Various combinations of modules are particularly suitable for use in different types of patient simulators. Thus, in some embodiments, a patient simulator system is created by combining modules having the desired characteristics of the completed simulator. In some examples, the simulator 1702 is configured for plug and play with a master module 1706 so that modules may be added or removed as desired. Similarly, in some embodiments, the control system 1104 is configured to activate or deactivate modules in the simulator 1702 as desired by the user. In some embodiments, the control system 1104 may be a module present in the simulator, a module that is available for use with the simulator but not present in the simulator, and / or the state of the existing module (whether it is running Is configured to provide data on whether or not.

  Patient simulator 1702 includes a voice module 1724. Voice module 1724 communicates with master module 1706, which in turn communicates with control system 1104. Voice module 1724 is an audio module configured to emit sound that simulates a patient's voice. In connection with the foregoing, the particular sound produced by the voice module 1724 is controlled by the user through the control system 1104 in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the control system 1104 includes a plurality of stored or pre-recorded sounds that may be selected from and played by the voice module 1724.

  In some embodiments, the sound includes one or more of various answers to questions that medical personnel ask the patient and / or sounds that the patient will emit. For example, the answers can be a variety of medical conditions (eg, “broken ankle”, “broken arm”, “bleeding in the toilet”, “not breathing”, “cannot move”, “move the leg” `` No '', `` Chest hurts '', `` Vaginalized '', `` I have a feeling of pressure on my chest '', `` I feel dizzy '', `` I feel nauseous '', `` I feel weak, '' `` Heart is fast '', `` Heart `` I am throbbing '', `` Heart jumps '', `` I hurt in my body '', `` I hurt when I breathe '', `` Cut off '', `` My chin hurts '', `` My left arm hurts '', `` Legs broken ”,” Blood ”,“ Blood ”,“ Blood ”,“ Vomiting ”,“ Breathing ”,“ Should hurt ”,“ Someone shot ”,“ Stomach Painful "," worst headache "and / or other medical conditions), confused answers (eg," Are you a doctor "," I don't remember "," What happens? " "Who are you", "Who are you", and / or other confusing answers), location answers (eg "arms", "chests", "legs", "shoulders") , “Left side”, “right side” and / or other location answers), descriptive answers (eg, “little”, “many”, “cannot move”, “dull”, “sharp”, “ Not painful ... pressure, pain in the heart of the chest, sharp tearing pain and / or other descriptive answers), ambiguous answers (e.g. Take me to the hospital "and / or other vague answers), general answers (eg," yes "," no "," maybe ", and / or other common answers) , Medical history answers (eg “asthma”, “diabetes”, “emphysema”, “had heart attack”, “high blood” , And / or other medical history answers), outbreak answers (e.g., “1 time”, “2 times”, “3 times”, “4 times”, “from last night”, “from this morning”, “ From the afternoon "and / or other occurrence answers). In addition to the answers and responses described above, sounds include coughing, nausea, stuffyness, whispering, shrieking, and / or other sounds emitted by the patient. In connection with the foregoing, each of the sounds may have a different level or type. For example, in some examples, the sounds include different severity coughs, nausea, whispering, shrieking, and / or other sounds.

  In some embodiments, the control system 1104 may be configured so that a user or teacher speaks into a microphone or other sound communication device coupled to the control system and the teacher's words or sounds are emitted from the voice module 1124. Communicate with voice module 1724. In some embodiments, user or teacher input may be conditioned using a voice amplifier or sound board to alter the sound of a voice emitted from the voice module 1724. For example, in some embodiments, the input sound is conditioned to simulate a hoarse voice patient, a patient with a closed airway, or other mental or physical condition of the patient. In connection with the foregoing, the teacher may selectively activate various types of audio conditioning based on the desired effect. Voice module 1724 and the corresponding voice simulation are used in some embodiments as part of the general medical scenario simulation.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a delivery motor module 1726. A delivery motor module 1726 is used to control delivery of a fetus or baby from the simulator 1702 in embodiments where the simulator is a birth simulator. In connection with the foregoing, a delivery motor module 1726 is used to control the position of the baby in the maternal simulator. Upon activation by the delivery motor module 1726, the delivery mechanism prompts the baby from the maternal uterus. In some embodiments, the delivery mechanism delivers the baby at least partially from the maternal uterus and the user completes the delivery of the baby. In some embodiments, the delivery mechanism rotates the baby as it passes through the birth canal. In general, the delivery motor module 1726 is configured to translate the baby along the birth canal. In connection with the foregoing, in some examples, the number of motor rotations relative to the starting point is used to determine the exact translation position of the baby in the maternal simulator.

  The patient simulator 1702 also includes a uterine audio module 1728 to simulate fetal sounds in the maternal uterus. For example, in some embodiments, uterine audio module 1728 is configured to simulate a fetal heartbeat in the uterus. In connection with the foregoing, the audio module generates a fetal heart sound that would be heard using a normal stethoscope placed on the maternal abdomen to hear the fetal heartbeat. In some embodiments, the fetal heart rate and the rate of change thereof are synchronized to the maternal contraction during the simulation. Phase matching of heart rate and contraction changes is used to assess the status of the fetus in the uterus. Such phase matching produces a pattern that is evaluated to assess fetal status. The phase matching pattern includes, for example, periodic acceleration, delayed deceleration, and / or variable deceleration. In some embodiments, the speaker of the uterine audio module 1728 is located in the fetus and responds to commands from the instructor through the master module 1706 located in the maternal simulator. In some embodiments, power and logic for module 1728 is positioned adjacent to the connection between the fetus and the birthing mechanism.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a breathing valve 1730, a right lung valve 1732, and a left lung valve 1734. Together, the breathing valve 1730, right lung valve 1732, and left lung valve 1734 control the flow of air into and out of the lungs of the simulator 1702. In connection with the foregoing, each of the valves 1730, 1732, and 1734 has an air valve. In some embodiments, the breathing valve 1730 is used to control the breathing rate of the simulator 1702. In connection with the foregoing, breathing valve 1730 opens and closes in order for the lungs to expand and contract at the desired rate. The right lung valve 1732 and the left lung valve 1734 are used to selectively disable the right and / or left lung, respectively. Thus, in some embodiments, when the right lung valve 1732 is open, the three-way air pilot valve is closed so that air cannot flow from the breathing valve into the right lung. In such an example, air flows only from the breathing valve into the left lung. Factors such as lung invalidation, breathing rate, breathing pattern, inspiration rate, and / or left or right lung invalidation may be based on signals received from the control system 1104 via the master module 1706. Controlled by 1730, 1732, and 1734.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes an ECG module 1736. The ECG module 1736 is configured to emit electrical signals that simulate the electrical activity of the heart of the simulator 1702. In some embodiments, the ECG module 1736 is configured to provide a signal associated with each of the 12 leads so that the 12 lead ECG signal is available to the user. In some embodiments, the ECG module 1736 is configured to emit a signal that simulates the presence of myocardial infarction in various parts of the heart. In some embodiments, the location of the myocardial infarction is selected via the control system 1104. Accordingly, the ECG module is used to train the user to identify the onset of heart attacks and / or related symptoms that are identifiable via the ECG. The electrical signal of the ECG module can be detected by standard ECG equipment. Further, in some embodiments, the ECG module 1736 is used in combination with a pacemaker / defibrillation module as described in connection with FIG. 40 above.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a ventilation module 1738. The ventilation module 1738 is configured to monitor the use of a ventilation device applied to the simulator 1738. The ventilator is, in some examples, a bag valve mask. In another example, the ventilator is the user's mouth, such as in mouse-to-mouse resuscitation. The ventilation module 1738 is configured to monitor the pressure applied by the ventilator and based on the pressure, determine whether the pressure is too high, too low, or within a desired range. The ventilation module 1738 communicates with the master module 1706 to relay the determination of whether the correct pressure is being applied to the control system 1104. In some embodiments, the simulator 1702 goes to recovery or further complications based on whether the correct pressure is being applied. For example, if ventilation is within the desired range of pressure, the patient simulator may show signs of recovery. On the other hand, if the ventilation is outside the desired range of pressure, the patient simulator may develop additional problems or symptoms and / or make it more difficult for the simulator to recover from the current symptoms. There is also.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a heart sound module 1740. Heart sound module 1740 is an audio module configured to emit sound to simulate the natural sound of the patient's heart. In connection with the foregoing, the sound of the heart sound module 1740 may be associated with the patient's heart rate and rhythm (eg, sinus, atrial tachycardia, multi-source atrial tachycardia, atrial flutter, atrial fibrillation, junction, Ventricular peculiar, ventricular tachycardia (single), ventricular tachycardia (multiple), supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular flutter, ventricular fibrillation, dead war period, systolic failure, left leg block, right leg block, second 1st AVB, 2nd AVB (Type I), 2nd AVB (Type II), 3rd AVB, Q wave myocardial infarction, ST elevation, ST decline, T wave reversal, atrial pacing, atrioventricular sequential pacing, One or more sounds are included to simulate a ventricular pacemaker (artificial) and / or other heart rhythm. Further, the heart sounds may be normal, distal, or absent, and may include systolic noise, S3 and / or S4. The control system 1104 and / or the user using the control system, in some embodiments, determines what heart sound is generated and at what speed the sound is generated. The sound generated by the heart sound module 1740 can be detected via the use of a stethoscope in some examples. In some embodiments, at least a portion of heart sound module 1740, such as a speaker, is positioned within simulator 1102 where a real heart will be.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a femoral artery pulsation module 1742. The femoral artery pulsation module 1742 is an air module for simulating the femoral artery pulsation of the simulator 1702. Patient simulator 1702 also includes a right foot beat module 1744 and a left foot beat module 1746. The left and right foot pulsation modules 1744, 1746 are configured to simulate foot pulsation of the feet of the simulator 1702. In connection with the foregoing, in some embodiments, foot beat modules 1744, 1746 are electrical modules configured to simulate foot beats. In other embodiments, foot beat modules 1744, 1746 are air modules configured to simulate foot beats. Patient simulator 1702 also includes a right radial artery pulsation module 1748 and a left radial artery pulsation module 1750. The left and right radial artery pulsation modules 1748 and 1750 are air modules for simulating radial artery pulsation of the simulator 1702. Patient simulator 1702 also includes a bilateral beat module 1176 for simulating the bilateral beat of the simulator. The patient simulator 1702 also includes an umbilical beat module 1752 for simulating umbilical beats between the maternal simulator and the associated fetal simulator.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a compression module 1756. The compression module 1756 is configured to monitor the chest compression force applied to the simulator 1702. In connection with the foregoing, the compression module 1756 is configured to monitor the applied pressure and based on the pressure, determine whether the pressure is too high, too low, or within a desired range. Is done. The compression module 1756 communicates with the master module 1706 to relay the determination of whether the correct pressure is being applied to the control system 1704. In some embodiments, the simulator 1702 goes to recovery or further complications based on whether the correct pressure is being applied. For example, if chest compression is within the desired range of pressure, the patient simulator may show signs of recovery. On the other hand, if chest compression is outside the desired range of pressure, the patient simulator may develop additional problems or symptoms and / or make it more difficult for the simulator to recover from the current symptoms. Sometimes.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a right cut arm module 1758 and a left cut arm module 1830. Cut arm modules 1758 and 1830 are configured to work with arms that simulate a cut arm as seen in war zones or car accidents. In other embodiments, the patient simulator 1702 includes a similar cutting module for use with a cut leg. Cutting modules 1758 and 1830 are configured to spout simulated blood in response to the selected heart rate and blood pressure of simulator 1702. The arms of simulator 1702 include a sac filled with simulated blood. Cutting modules 1758 and 1830 include pneumatic and power connections. The power selectively activates the air valve depending on the heart rate of the simulator to start / stop bleeding. The strength or amount of the artificial squirt is controlled by selecting the length of time that the valve is open and / or by selecting the pressure of the line connected to the bladder. The longer the valve is open and the greater the pressure, the more blood will spout from the arm. Bleeding can be stopped by adding a conventional tourniquet to the severed arm. In some embodiments, a flexible tube is positioned under the skin of the simulator in the area where the tourniquet is to be placed. When the user places the tourniquet properly, the flexible tube closes and bleeding stops. However, the simulator 1702 continues to bleed if the tourniquet is not properly placed or if there is not enough tensile stress to close the tube when properly placed.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes lung sound modules 1760, 1762, 1764, 1766, 1768, 1770, 1772, and 1774. In particular, the lung sound module 1760 is used to simulate the sound of the upper right lung toward the front of the simulator 1702. Lung sound module 1762 is used to simulate the sound of the upper left lung toward the front of the simulator. The lung sound module 1764 is used to simulate the sound of the lower right lung toward the front of the simulator. The lung sound module 1766 is used to simulate the sound of the lower left lung toward the front of the simulator. The lung sound module 1768 is used to simulate the sound of the upper right lung toward the back of the simulator. The lung sound module 1770 is used to simulate the sound of the upper left lung toward the back of the simulator. Lung sound module 1772 is used to simulate the sound of the lower right lung toward the back of the simulator. The lung sound module 1774 is used to simulate the sound of the lower left lung toward the front of the simulator 1702.

  Each of the lung sound modules 1760, 1762, 1764, 1766, 1768, 1770, 1772, and 1774 is an audio module configured to generate sounds to simulate the natural sounds of the patient's lungs. In connection with the foregoing, lung sound modules 1760, 1762, 1764, 1766, 1768, 1770, 1772, and 1774 are configured in some embodiments to generate one or more of the following lung sounds. Normal: none, wheezing, inspiratory key sounds, crackling sounds, rails, and / or other lung sounds. In addition, the lung sound modules 1760, 1762, 1764, 1766, 1768, 1770, 1772, and 1774 are used to simulate, but are not limited to, normal, cousmaul, chain -Includes Stokes, Bio, sustained inspiration, and / or other breathing patterns. A combination of lung sound modules 1760, 1762, 1764, 1766, 1768, 1770, 1772, and 1774 is also used to simulate the patient's respiratory rate. In connection with the foregoing, the respiration rate may be set to a constant rate and / or may be set to change over time.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a K sound module 1776 for the right arm of the simulator and a K sound module 1778 for the left arm of the simulator. Each of the K sound modules 1776 and 1778 is configured to generate a simulated K sound (Korotkoff sound). In connection with the foregoing, K sound modules 1776 and 1778 are used to allow the user to measure the blood pressure of the patient simulator 1702 in some embodiments. In connection with the foregoing, K sound modules 1776 and 1778 are configured to generate related K sounds when the user is measuring the blood pressure of the patient simulator 1702. In some embodiments, the determination of which K sound to generate is determined, at least in part, by the pressure measurement of the blood pressure cuff module of the simulator 1702. Furthermore, the K sounds generated by modules 1776 and 1778 are determined based on the simulated heart rate and blood pressure. In some examples, the heart rate and blood pressure of the patient simulator 1702 are provided by the user or teacher via the control system 1104.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a left blood pressure cuff module 1780 and a right blood pressure cuff module 1782. The left and right blood pressure cuff modules 1780 and 1782 are pressure modules configured to allow the user to measure the simulated blood pressure of the patient simulator 1702. The blood pressure cuff modules 1780 and 1782 are configured to be used with a standard blood pressure monitor in some embodiments.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a compressor module 1784. The compressor module 1784 is configured to control the compressor of the simulator 1702. A compressor is used to provide a compressed air supply to the various pneumatic devices of the simulator 1702. For example, in some embodiments, a compressor is used in a module for simulating lungs, pulses, contractions, abdominal pressure, seizures, eye dilation, blinking, and / or other aspects of the patient simulator 1702. Provide air. In some embodiments, the compressor provides compressed air to one or more reservoirs or accumulators that are then connected to various air modules of the simulator 1702. In connection with the foregoing, the air reservoir may maintain different air pressures so that different air modules are connected to the air reservoir at the appropriate air pressure for that application. In some examples, an air module of a patient simulator 1702 that uses a compressor is configured to run at relatively low air pressure, eg, less than 10 psi in some embodiments and less than 5 psi in other embodiments. Is done. In some examples, simulator 1702 includes two accumulators, one of which maintains an air pressure of approximately 5 psi and the other accumulator maintains an air pressure of approximately 1 psi. In other embodiments, the accumulator maintains other air pressures. In general, however, the patient simulator 1702 and its associated components are configured to operate at low pressure, which helps prevent water from being introduced into the simulator to which the high pressure system is coupled. The consequence of using a high-pressure system, but if water is introduced into the simulator, it can damage the simulator, increasing maintenance costs and removing or limiting the amount of water in the simulator. Requires additional components to do.

  Further, the compressor is sized to fit completely within the simulator 1702. In connection with the foregoing, the compressor operates quietly so as not to interfere with other simulation aspects of the simulator 1702. Thus, in some examples, a silencing system is used to minimize the noise generated by the compressor. The silencing system is used in some embodiments on the input side, output side, and / or both sides of the compressor. Further, the compressor is self-cooling in some examples. In one such embodiment, the compressor includes a plurality of metal pipes surrounding at least the compressor motor through which the intake air proceeds. The intake air that travels through the metal pipe helps dissipate the heat generated by the compressor. Thus, the compressor can operate entirely within the simulator 1702 without overheating or disturbing other simulation aspects of the simulator. This allows the simulator 1702 to function fully without being attached to a noisy external high pressure compressor.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a plurality of color change modules 1786, 1788, and 1790. In connection with the foregoing, the color change module 1786 is configured to control the color change around the lips of the simulator 1702. The color change module 1788 is configured to control color changes around the fingers of the simulator. Color change module 1790 is configured to control color changes around the toes of the simulator. Color change modules 1786, 1788, and 1790 are used, in some embodiments, to simulate a patient simulator cyanosis. Accordingly, the color change modules 1786, 1788, and 1790 are configured to simulate different levels of cyanosis in the patient simulator 1702. In connection with the foregoing, the degree of cyanosis is determined by the control system 1104 and / or the user of the control system 1104 in some embodiments. The degree of cyanosis may tend to increase and / or decrease based on various parameters including the effectiveness of the given treatment. In some embodiments, this trend is controlled manually via control system 1104. In other embodiments, this trend is controlled, at least in part, by the physiological simulator software application of the control system 1104.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes an intubation module 1792. Intubation module 1792 is configured to monitor the intubation of patient simulator 1702. In connection with the foregoing, the appropriate intubation depth for the patient simulator 1702 depends on the size and / or age of the patient simulator. In connection with the foregoing, the intubation module 1792 is coupled to a specific size patient simulator to determine the appropriate intubation depth. In some embodiments, the intubation module 1792 uses an optical sensor to monitor the depth of the intubation tube within the trachea of the patient simulator 1702. In some embodiments, the intubation module 1792 uses a pair of spaced optical sensors to define an acceptable range of intubation depth. A first optical sensor is used to detect the presence of the intubation tube when the start of an acceptable range of depth is reached. A second optical sensor is used to detect when the intubation tube has advanced beyond an acceptable range of depth.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a right arm movement module 1794 and a left arm movement module 1796. The left and right arm movement modules 1794 and 1796 are configured to activate left and right arm movements of the simulator 1702. In some embodiments, the left and right arm modules 1794 and 1796 are particularly suitable for use in a newborn size simulator. In some embodiments, the left and right arm motion modules 1794 and 1796 have air modules that are used to inflate and deflate the air bag to which the simulator arms are connected. In connection with the foregoing, in some examples, the air bag has an accordion bag so that when the bag is filled with air, it inflates outward with a predetermined profile. The simulator arm moves by inflating and deflating the bag with the module. Coupled to the bag is, in some examples, a pivot assembly positioned adjacent to the elbow of the simulator. In one particular embodiment, the inflation and deflation of the bag causes the simulator arm to bend or straighten via the pivot assembly. Because arm movement is actuated by inflation and deflation of the air module and air bag, the user can inflict physical damage to the simulator as opposed to some mechanically actuated systems. Arm movement can be suppressed. In some embodiments, the arm motion module is configured to activate a mechanical system or motor to move the simulator arm. In some embodiments, the mechanical system may include a safety device to prevent damage to the arm motion module and related components if and when the intended arm motion is suppressed by the user. including.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a rotation module 1798. The rotation module 1798 is configured to rotate the fetus or baby in the maternal simulator. In particular, the rotation module 1798 is configured to operate a motor or other device for controlling the baby's rotation as the baby passes through the maternal simulator's birth canal. Patient simulator 1702 also includes a load cell module 180. In some embodiments, the load cell module 1800 is positioned on the delivery mechanism of the maternal simulator and is configured to monitor the amount of pressure being applied to the baby during childbirth. In connection with the foregoing, the load cell module 1800 is positioned adjacent to the point of attaching the baby to the delivery mechanism in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the load cell module 1800 is positioned within the baby or on the baby itself. In general, the signal generated by the load cell is communicated to the control system 1104 via the master module 1706. Based on the pressure or force sensed as measured by the load cell, a determination can be made as to whether the amount of force being used in giving birth to the baby is within a desired range.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes abdominal pressure module 1802. Abdominal pressure module 1802 is used to control the stiffness of the abdomen of the maternal simulator. In connection with the foregoing, abdominal pressure module 1802 is configured to sense the amount of pressure within the maternal abdomen. Based on the desired pressure, the abdominal pressure module 1802 determines whether the abdominal pressure should be increased, decreased, or maintained as it is. If the pressure is to be increased, the abdominal pressure module 1802 activates air flow through the air valve to the abdomen. In some embodiments, the abdominal pressure module 1802 is in communication with a reservoir or compressor to provide air flow to the abdomen. If the pressure is to be reduced, the abdominal pressure module 1802 activates the release of air from the abdomen. In some examples, control system 1104 provides the desired pressure. In connection with the foregoing, a user or teacher can define abdominal pressure via control system 1104 in some embodiments.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a baby release module 1804. Baby release module 1804 is configured to selectively release the baby from the delivery mechanism in the maternal simulator. In this regard, the baby release module 1804 is remotely activated by the user or teacher via the control system 1104 in some examples. In other examples, the baby release module 1804 is activated based on the delivery mechanism and / or the position of the baby within the birth canal. That is, once the baby reaches a certain position and / or orientation relative to the birth canal, the baby release module is activated to release the engagement between the delivery mechanism and the baby.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a tongue control module 1806. The tongue control module 1806 is an air module configured to selectively inflate and / or contract the tongue so as to partially obstruct the airways of the simulator 1702. In connection with the foregoing, the tongue control module 1806 is controlled via the control system 1104 in some examples. Thus, the user or teacher can partially obstruct the airway or remove obstructions as desired. Patient simulator 1702 also includes a laryngeal control module 1808 and a pharyngeal control module 1810. The laryngeal control module 1214 is configured to open and close the larynx to partially obstruct the simulator airway to simulate laryngeal spasm. Similarly, the pharyngeal control module 1216 is configured to prompt the posterior wall of the pharynx forward to partially obstruct the simulator's airway to simulate pharyngeal swelling. The laryngeal control module 1808 and the pharyngeal control module 1810 are also controlled via the control system 1104 in some examples. Thus, the user or teacher can also partially obstruct the airways or remove obstructions as desired with these features.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a pneumothorax module 1812 and a pneumothorax release module 1814. The pneumothorax module 1812 is configured to simulate the presence of pneumothorax (lung collapse) in the left or right lung. The pneumothorax release module 1814 is configured to return the simulator 1702 to a normal lung condition without pneumothorax. The initiation and relaxation of the pneumothorax state is controlled via the control system 1104.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes eyelid module 1816. The eyelid module 1816 is configured to control blinking of the patient's eyes. In some embodiments, the eyelid module 1816 includes a module for controlling the opening and closing of the eyelid to simulate blinking. Similarly, the blink rate, pattern, and speed are controlled by the control system 1104 in some examples. In some examples, the blink rate ranges from 5 times per minute to 30 times per minute. However, in some other embodiments, this external range is used. Furthermore, the eye can be maintained in an open position or a closed position. The blinking speed can be controlled as well. In some examples, the speed of each blink from opening to closing is approximately 200 ms. However, the blinking speed can be increased or decreased as desired in some embodiments.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a right seizure module 1818 and a left seizure module 1820. Left and right seizure modules 1818 and 1820 are configured to simulate patient seizures on corresponding sides of the patient's body. Thus, seizure modules 1818 and 1820 are configured to cause tremors and / or convulsions in some embodiments. Also, in some examples, seizure modules 1818 and 1820 are used together to simulate a generalized seizure. In some examples, activation of seizure modules 1818 and 1820 is controlled via control system 1104.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a rotary encoder module 1822 and a head encoder module 1824. The rotary encoder module 1822 and head encoder module 1824 are configured to provide rotational position data for babies in the maternal simulator's birth canal. In connection with the foregoing, rotary encoder module 1822 and head encoder module 1824 are specifically configured to monitor the relative rotation of the baby in the birth canal. In some embodiments, the rotary encoder module 1822 is positioned in the delivery mechanism of the maternal simulator and the head encoder module 1824 is positioned in a portion of the baby. In some examples, the head encoder module 1824 is positioned within the baby's head. Baby rotation is determined by comparing the relative rotation of the head encoder module 1824 on the baby with respect to the rotary encoder module 1822. In some examples, the rotary encoder module 1822 is substantially rotationally fixed. Based on the relative rotation of module 1824 compared to module 1824, the rotational position of the baby can be determined. In some embodiments, modules 1822 and 1824 are optical modules. Rotation data from modules 1822 and 1824 is communicated to control system 1104 in some embodiments. In one such embodiment, the user or teacher uses the position information and rotation information to determine when to release the baby from the maternal simulator delivery mechanism. In other embodiments, the control system 1104 automatically releases the baby from the delivery mechanism based on the exact orientation and position of the baby in the birth canal.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a right pupil dilation module 1826 and a left pupil dilation module 1828. In some embodiments, pupil dilation modules 1826 and 1828 control the dilation of each of the simulator's eyes based at least in part on the amount of light received by an optical sensor positioned within the eye. The maximum size of the pupil and / or the rate of pupil change or dilation is controlled by the control system 1104 in some examples.

  Patient simulator 1702 also includes a major bleeding module 1832. In some embodiments, the major bleeding module 1832 is configured for use with a maternal simulator. In connection with the foregoing, massive bleeding is a major cause of maternal death. It is not unusual for a woman to lose 500 cc of blood during or after a baby's delivery, but losing more than 1 liter of blood can cause shock and ultimately death. The patient simulator is equipped with a reservoir containing simulated blood, from which the simulated blood can be ejected to simulate major bleeding. In that regard, the massive bleeding module operates in a manner substantially similar to the left and right arm cutting modules 1758 and 1830 described above. In the maternal simulator application, the amount of bleeding and its flow rate is controlled via a flexible tube positioned between the reservoir and the birth canal. The user can stop bleeding by applying the appropriate pressure to deform the tube and cut the simulated blood flow.

  Each of the various modules is connected to the master module 1706 via a power line 1834, a ground line 1836, and a bidirectional communication wire 1838. In connection with the foregoing, the master module 1706 can control the activation, deactivation, and power consumption of each of the modules. In some embodiments, the master module 1706 is controlled via the control system 1104 software program. In other embodiments, the module is directly connected to the power supply. In some embodiments, the master module 1706 is wirelessly communicated to one or more modules. In some embodiments, the communication to one or more modules is a one-way communication. In some embodiments, the modules themselves are interconnected via communication wires 1838 or additional communication wires. In connection with the foregoing, in some examples, no master module acts as a master module for a subset of modules.

  In some embodiments, the patient simulator of the present disclosure is configured for a physiological simulator. In connection with the foregoing, in some embodiments, an external control system or other software-based interface is configured to adjust various physical parameters of the patient simulator based on a physiological simulation protocol. In some embodiments, the external control system includes, but is not limited to, a plurality of models, a circulation model, a respiratory model, a myocardial infarction model, a drug / drug model, a maternal / fetal model, and / or Alternatively, it includes a physiological model for controlling simulated physical parameters. The physiological model is configured to simulate various physiological situations and medical conditions, such as heart attacks, reduced oxygen supply, and any other desired medical condition that may be simulated by an associated patient simulator. The Several specific embodiments of physiological simulations and physiological simulation models are described next.

  In one embodiment, physiological simulation is used with a maternal simulator and a fetal simulator. For example, in some embodiments, the effects of the abnormal body condition of the maternal simulator on the fetal simulator are simulated by changing the physical characteristics of the fetal simulator. Furthermore, this effect is maintained or defined in the neonatal simulator after the fetal simulator's simulated delivery. In some examples, the maternal / fetal model generates multiple physiological outputs that define the physical characteristics of the maternal simulator and fetal simulator. These physiological outputs are received by the simulator master module, and then the corresponding physical features are simulated. In some examples, the physiological output includes maternal blood oxygen supply. The level of maternal blood oxygen supply is related to the fetal heart rate, and how the fetal heart rate changes corresponds to the contraction of the maternal simulator. A high level of oxygen supply is associated with a strong pattern of normal fetal heart rate and fetal heart sounds. However, low levels of oxygen supply are associated with low heart rate and aura patterns, such as fluctuating transient bradycardia. Furthermore, maternal blood oxygen supply is also related to the level of fetal oxygen supply. In particular, a low maternal blood oxygen supply level indicates that the fetus receives a low amount of oxygen through the placenta. The level of fetal oxygen supply is related to the comfort of the newborn. Fetuses that are well oxygenated during the delivery process usually exhibit correct posture, good muscle tone, more than 100 heart rate per minute, good color, and good breathing as a newborn. These five factors, namely posture, muscle tone, heart rate, color, and respiration, are used to assess the neonatal Apgar score. Apgar scores are usually determined at 1 minute after birth, 5 minutes after birth, and if necessary, at 5 minute intervals thereafter.

  Thus, the maternal / fetal model provides a physiological output that correlates the physical parameters of the maternal simulator and fetal simulator relative to each other. In addition, the features of the fetal simulator continue in some instances to the newborn simulator. Newborns are designed to exhibit these physical characteristics, and in some embodiments, newborns that exhibit an Apgar score of 0 to 10 can be simulated. In this way, the comfort of the maternal simulator is transferred to the fetal simulator, which is then transferred to the newborn. In connection with the foregoing, in some embodiments, the fetal simulator and the newborn simulator are the same simulator. In another example, the fetal simulator and the newborn simulator are separate simulators.

  In addition to correlating the maternal and fetal simulator physical parameters with respect to each other, physiological modeling is also configured to correlate the physical parameters within a single simulator. For example, in some embodiments, the physical parameters of the simulator are adjusted by the user based on the therapy provided to the simulator. If appropriate treatment is provided, the physical parameters of the simulator are improved. However, if treatment is not appropriate, the physical parameters of the simulator remain the same or worsen. The specific interaction between treatment and simulator physical parameters is driven by a physiological model. In connection with the foregoing, in some examples, the physiological model uses data received from modules in the simulator to determine whether a treatment is appropriate. For example, in some examples, the amount of pressure detected by the chest compression module or ventilation module is used to determine whether the level of treatment is appropriate for the treatment. Further, in some embodiments, the physical parameters of the simulator are expanded from one area of the simulator to another area. For example, in some instances, if the simulator's breathing system indicates that the simulator is hypoxic and if this problem is not adequately addressed through appropriate treatment, the breathing problem is simulated Extended to problems in In connection with the foregoing, various physiological models, in some examples, communicate with each other. The specific interactions between the various parts of the simulator are defined according to natural physiological interactions within the body in some examples. In some examples, these interactions are defined based, at least in part, on medical studies and / or published articles regarding such interactions.

  In some embodiments, the physiological modeling includes a circulation model. The circulation model is configured to control simulated physical parameters of the patient simulator's circulation system. In connection with the foregoing, the circulatory model controls blood pressure, heart rate, blood oxygenation, K sounds, and / or other parameters of the circulatory system. In some examples, the circulation model controls physical parameters in various compartments or regions of the patient simulator. In connection with the foregoing, in some examples, the circulatory system is divided into multiple regions and includes, but is not limited to, four chambers of the heart. Further, in some embodiments, the physiological modeling includes a myocardial infarction model. In some examples, the myocardial infarction model is part of a circulation model. The myocardial infarction model is configured to control aspects of the circulatory system associated with a heart attack, including but not limited to supplying oxygen to the heart. In some examples, the myocardial infarction model controls a specific location of the myocardial infarction. Further, in some examples, the myocardial infarction model controls the ECG module of the patient simulator so that the ECG module emits an electrical signal corresponding to the myocardial infarction, but is not limited to this. And / or severity.

  In some embodiments, the physiological modeling includes a respiratory model. The respiratory model is configured to control simulated parameters of the patient simulator's respiratory system. In connection with the foregoing, the respiration model controls respiration rate, inspiration rate, lung sound, O 2 / CO 2 mixture, and / or other parameters of the respiration system. In some embodiments, the physiological modeling includes a drug or drug model.In some examples, the drug model is simulated in a patient simulator based on effects associated with introducing the drug to the patient. Configured to integrate with other models and / or modules to modify parameters. In connection with the foregoing, in some examples, the drug model maintains a database of physical effects associated with a particular drug. Thus, the drug model shows or adjusts the parameters of the patient simulator based on drug effects. The rate of change of the parameter is based in some examples on the effect of the drug. In some examples, the drug model allows the user to define the effects of the drug.

  In some embodiments, the physiological modeling includes multiple scenarios. In connection with the foregoing, each scenario is defined by a specific grouping or set of parameters. In some examples, the scenario includes specific circulatory parameters and respiratory parameters associated with a medical problem. Thus, the scenario, in some examples, integrates features of various physiological models. In some embodiments, the physiological modeling is configured to go during the scenario. In connection with the foregoing, a user or teacher defines a predetermined series of scenarios. The user, in some embodiments, defines the amount of time for each scenario and the amount of transition time between scenarios. In some embodiments, the set of scenarios is modified based at least in part on the treatment given to the patient simulator. In connection with the foregoing, the parameters of the patient simulator are improved or decreased based at least in part on the treatment being given. In some embodiments, at least some of the scenarios are predefined or provided by a physiological simulation model. In some embodiments, at least some of the scenarios are user defined. That is, the user can define a scenario by associating a plurality of parameters. Further, the user can associate multiple scenarios as additional scenarios, whether predefined or user-defined.

  Referring now to FIG. 45, a schematic diagram of a patient simulator system 1900 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In particular, the system 1900 includes a patient simulator 1902 that includes a plurality of modules that are particularly suited for birth simulation. In connection with the foregoing, simulator 1902 includes a combination of the selected modules described in connection with FIG. 44 above. In connection with the foregoing, patient simulator 1902 includes a master module 1706, a communication module 1708, an antenna 1710, a battery 1718, and a charger 1720. In addition to these components, simulator 1902 includes voice module 1724, delivery module 1726, FHR sound module 1728, breathing valve module 1728, heart sound module 1740, bilateral pulsation module 1752, ECG module 1736, ventilation module 1738, compression Module 1756, K sound modules 1776 and 1778, Lung sound modules 1760 and 1762, Blood pressure cuff modules 1780 and 1784, Compressor control module 1784, Intubation module 1798, Rotation module 1798, Load cell module 1800, Abdominal module 1802, Release module 1804, Larynx Module 1808, seizure module 1819 (in some embodiments, left and right seizure modules 1818 and The combination of 1820), including the rotary encoder module 1822 and head encoder module 1822,.

  46-49, a schematic diagram of an eye assembly 2000 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In particular, FIG. 46 is a front view of eye assembly 2000. FIG. 47 is a schematic front view of the iris of eye assembly 2000. FIG. 48 is a bottom view of the eye assembly 2000. FIG. 49 is a schematic view of the blink assembly of eye assembly 2000. Referring more specifically to FIG. 46, the eye assembly 2000 includes a left eye 2002 and a right eye 2003. The left and right eyes 2002 and 2003 are sized, shaped and colored to simulate real patient eyes. In connection with the foregoing, the eyes 2002, 2003 include an eyelid 2004 and a simulated iris assembly 2006 configured to expand similar to the real eye. In connection with the foregoing, in some embodiments, the pupil diameter can be adjusted from 1 mm to 8 mm. In some examples, the maximum diameter of the pupil is determined by a control system in communication with the eye assembly 2000. In connection with the foregoing, a user or teacher can, in some embodiments, set the pupil size via a control system.

  Eye assembly 2000 includes a servo motor 2008 that communicates with or is directly connected to wheel 2010. The wheel 2010 is now in communication with or directly connected to the microfilament line 2012, which is in communication with or directly connected to the iris assembly 2006. In particular, the microfilament line 2012 communicates or is directly connected to the pin 2014 of the iris assembly 2006. Referring to FIG. 47 in more detail, the pin 2014 can move relative to the outer portion 2016 of the iris assembly 2006 such that the inner portion 2018 expands and contracts radially with the corresponding movement of the pin 2014. In some embodiments, the pin 2014 moves left or right around the exterior of the outer portion 2016 to adjust the size of the visible portion of the inner portion 2018, as shown in FIG.

  In some embodiments, eye assembly 2000 includes an optical sensor coupled to each eye 2002 and 2003. Based on the amount of light received by the optical sensor, the servomotor 2008 is activated to increase or decrease the amount of the inner portion 2018 of the iris assembly that is visible. The larger the amount of inner portion 2018 that is visible, the smaller the simulated pupil of the eye. Similarly, the smaller the amount of inner portion 2018 that is visible, the larger the simulated pupil of the eye will appear. In this way, pupil dilation is simulated by the eye assembly 2000. In some examples, the rate of change or responsiveness of the iris assembly can be slowed to simulate an abnormal condition that results in slow pupil dilation.

  48 and 49 in more detail, the eye assembly 2000 is configured to simulate a patient's blink. In particular, eyelids 2004 and 2003 are opened and closed to simulate blinking. In this embodiment, the eye assembly 2000 simulates eye blink using a pneumatic system. In particular, eye assembly 2000 includes an open bag 2020, an intermediate plate 2022, and a closure bag 2024. Intermediate plate 2022 is connected to eyelid 2004 via follower 2026 such that the eyelid opens and closes when the intermediate plate translates due to the expansion and contraction of bags 2020 and 2024. In some embodiments, a spring 2028 is also included to facilitate faster opening and closing of the eyelid 2004. When the opening bag 2020 is inflated, the intermediate plate 2022 moves away from the eye and the eyelid 2004 remains open. When the closure bag 2024 is inflated, the intermediate plate 2022 faces the eye and the eyelid 2004 closes. Thus, bags 2020 and 2024 can be activated sequentially to simulate blinking.

  Referring more specifically to FIG. 49, a schematic diagram of the blink assembly of eye assembly 2000 is shown. In connection with the foregoing, the blink assembly is in communication with an air reservoir or compressor 2030 to inflate the bags 2020 and 2024. In connection with the above, the control panel 2032 controls the opening and closing of the valve 2034 connected to the opening bag 2020. Similarly, the control panel 2036 controls the opening and closing of the valve 2038 connected to the closing bag 2024. In some embodiments, the control boards 2032 and 2036 communicate or are directly connected to the simulator master module. In such an embodiment, the master module commands the control boards 2032 and 2036 to open and close the valves 2034 and 2038, respectively. In some embodiments, the blink rate, pattern and / or speed is controlled by a control system in communication with the master module. In some examples, the blink rate ranges from 5 times per minute to 30 times per minute. However, in some embodiments, this external range is used. Further, the eyelid 2004 can be maintained in the open or closed position as desired. The blinking speed can also be controlled. In some examples, the speed of each blink from open to close and back to open is approximately 200 ms. However, the blinking speed can be increased or decreased as desired in some embodiments.

  Referring now to FIG. 50, a schematic perspective view of a delivery mechanism 2100 for use in a patient simulator system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In particular, the delivery mechanism 2100 is configured to selectively rotate the fetal simulator, release the fetal simulator, and / or monitor the force applied to the fetal simulator as the fetal simulator travels through the birth canal. The In some embodiments, the delivery mechanism 2100 is configured to monitor the force applied to the fetal simulator by a student or medical personnel during a simulated birth. The delivery mechanism 2100 includes a mounting plate 2102. The mounting plate 2102 is connected to a part of the mother simulator. In some embodiments, the mounting plate is connected via portion 2104 to a delivery mechanism configured to translate along the birth canal. In such embodiments, the delivery mechanism 2100 is configured to provide rotational movement to the fetus when the translation delivery mechanism translates the fetus along the birth canal.

  The delivery mechanism 2100 includes a motor 2106. In some embodiments, the motor 2106 is configured to provide rotational movement to the fetal simulator. In other embodiments, the motor 2106 is configured to provide translational motion to the fetal simulator in addition to or instead of rotational motion. In some embodiments, the delivery mechanism 2100 includes a potentiometer 2108 for monitoring the rotational motion of the fetal simulator. The potentiometer is connected to the gear 2110 via the gear 2112. As shown, the gear 2110 surrounds the swivel base 2114 so that the gear 2110 also rotates when the swivel base 2114 rotates. Coupled to the swivel base 2114 is a swivel 2116 and a swivel cap 2118 configured to provide rotation to the fetal simulator. In some embodiments, the motor 2106 drives a swivel system to rotate the swivel 2116, swivel cap 2118, and swivel base 2114. Thus, when the motor 2106 rotates the swivel component, the gear 2110 also rotates, causing the gear 2112 to rotate. The rotation of the gear 2112 is now monitored by a potentiometer to determine the amount of rotation of the fetal simulator.

  The delivery mechanism 2100 also includes a load cell 2120 and a load cell support 2122 for monitoring the force applied to the fetal simulator during a birth simulation. In connection with the foregoing, the fetal simulator is securely attached to the delivery mechanism via the attachment mechanism 2124. In some embodiments, the attachment mechanism 2124 is similar to that described above in connection with FIGS. Further, in some embodiments, engaging and disengaging the fetal simulator with the attachment mechanism is controlled by an air valve located within the delivery mechanism 2100. In some embodiments, the air valve is controlled via a control system. Thus, in some embodiments, a user or teacher can selectively release the fetal simulator from the attachment mechanism 2124. The secure connection between the fetal simulator and the attachment mechanism 2124 allows the force applied to the fetal simulator to be transferred to the load cell 2120 through the attachment mechanism. In some embodiments, the load cell support 2122 is positioned on either side of the load cell 2120 to prevent undesired movement of the load cell. The amount of force, torque, pressure, and / or derivative thereof measured by the load cell 2120 is communicated to the control system in some embodiments. These measurements are then compared to the accepted standard to assess whether the appropriate amount of force was used for the birth simulation.

  Referring now to FIG. 51, a schematic diagram of a delivery mechanism 2200 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In particular, the delivery mechanism 2200 is configured to selectively rotate the fetal simulator, release the fetal simulator, and / or monitor the force applied to the fetal simulator as the fetal simulator travels through the birth canal. The In some embodiments, the delivery mechanism 2200 is configured to monitor the force applied to the fetal simulator by a student or medical personnel during a simulated birth. The delivery mechanism 2200 includes a mounting plate 2202. The mounting plate 2202 is connected to a part of the mother simulator. In some embodiments, the mounting plate is connected via portion 2204 to a delivery mechanism configured to translate the delivery mechanism 2200 and / or fetal simulator along the birth canal. In such embodiments, the delivery mechanism 2200 is configured to provide rotational movement to the fetus when the translation delivery mechanism translates the fetus along the birth canal.

  The delivery mechanism 2200 includes a motor 2206. In some embodiments, the motor 2206 is configured to provide rotational movement to the fetal simulator. In other embodiments, the motor 2206 is configured to provide translational motion to the fetal simulator in addition to or instead of rotational motion. In some embodiments, the delivery mechanism 2200 includes a sensor 2208 for monitoring the rotational motion of the fetal simulator. In some embodiments, sensor 2208 is similar to rotary encoders 1228, 1336, and / or 1822 described above. Sensor 2208 is positioned adjacent to swivel base 2214. Coupled to the swivel base 2214 is a swivel 2216 and a swivel cap 2218 that are configured to provide rotation to the fetal simulator. In some embodiments, motor 2206 drives a swivel system to rotate swivel 2216, swivel cap 2218, and swivel base 2214.

  The delivery mechanism 2200 also includes a load cell 2220 and a load cell support 2222 for monitoring the force applied to the fetal simulator during a birth simulation. In connection with the foregoing, the fetal simulator is securely attached to the delivery mechanism via attachment mechanism 2224. In some embodiments, the attachment mechanism 2224 is similar to that described above in connection with FIGS. In this embodiment, the power and communication connector 2226 is engaged so that when the fetal simulator engages the attachment mechanism, the power and communication connector 2226 engages the connector of the fetal simulator to provide power and data transfer to the fetal simulator. Positioned adjacent to the mounting mechanism. In some embodiments, the communication connector 2226 is configured to communicate bidirectionally with the fetal simulator. Also, in some embodiments, portion 2228 of attachment mechanism 2224 acts as a ground for connector 2226. In some embodiments, engaging and disengaging the fetal simulator with the attachment mechanism is controlled by an air valve located within the delivery mechanism 2200. In some embodiments, the air valve is controlled via a control system. Thus, in some embodiments, a user or teacher can selectively release the fetal simulator from the attachment mechanism 2224. A secure connection between the fetal simulator and the attachment mechanism 2224 allows the force applied to the fetal simulator to be transferred to the load cell 2220 through the attachment mechanism. In some embodiments, the load cell support 2222 is positioned on either side of the load cell 2220 to prevent undesired movement of the load cell. The amount of force, torque, pressure, and / or derivative thereof measured by the load cell 2220 is communicated to the control system in some embodiments. These measurements are then compared to the accepted standard to assess whether the appropriate amount of force was used for the birth simulation.

  While exemplary embodiments have been shown and described, a wide range of modifications, changes, and alternatives are contemplated in the foregoing disclosure, and in some examples, some features of this embodiment may be other features. It can be employed without using it. In the foregoing description, it should be understood that such variations can be implemented without departing from the scope of the embodiments. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the disclosure.

While it is desirable to train students on patient care protocols before allowing them to interact with actual patients, textbooks and flashcards lack the significant benefits gained from “practical” practice. Therefore, patient nursing education is often taught using a medical instrument for performing patient care on a simulator such as a human body model. However, one of the disadvantages of such systems is that medical devices are often extremely expensive, so many users can use different types of devices, even at the expense of narrowing the educational experience. It must be reduced. One solution to the above problem is a set of inexpensive, as taught in US Pat. No. 5,853,292, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The use of simulation medical instruments (“virtual” instruments). Another solution is to make the simulator compatible with real medical devices.
Another challenge in patient nursing education is that the patient simulator used to teach the user is passive. For example, in a delivery simulation, the user places the simulated fetus in the simulated maternal pelvis, lowers it via the birth canal, delivers the fetal head, rotates the fetus approximately 90 °, and rotates the shoulder. It needs to be delivered and finally the fetus extracted (which will be referred to as “newborn” at this point). While imitating a series of events in actual labor, the user physically controls the fetus and lacks authenticity, making it difficult to perceive the difficulty of performing patient care. In actual delivery, the fetus is inaccessible and most movement is hidden and invisible, and prior art systems address the most difficult situation of providing patient care during childbirth. Absent. In addition, prior art systems do not simulate cervical dilatation as the fetus descends through the birth canal, so students can evaluate cervical dilation to assess the stage of labor and to assess progress in labor. Unable to create a time extension chart ("delivery record").
Yet another challenge in patient care education is that the system is too bulky and often requires too many wiring connections to other components, making it difficult to move the simulator to other locations. Even in a system called “portable”, it is often necessary to move many connecting parts such as a compressor and a power supply in order to make the simulator function completely. The solution to this problem is to make a fully functional and independent simulator that communicates wirelessly with external devices. Therefore, there is a need for a system for an interactive education system that is used to conduct patient nursing training sessions, including more realistic simulation patients.

Prior art document information related to the invention of this application includes the following (including documents cited in the international phase after the international filing date and documents cited when entering the country in other countries).
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Claims (93)

A patient simulator for teaching patient care,
A patient body having one or more simulated body parts;
A pair of bladders positioned within the patient body and simulating the lungs of the patient;
A compressor positioned within the patient body, the compressor communicating with the bladder and simulating a breathing pattern by selectively supplying air to the bladder;
A master module positioned within the patient body and configured to communicate with an external control system;
A breathing module system positioned within the patient body and spaced from the master module, wherein the breathing module system controls the supply of air to and from the sac, by Said breathing module system for controlling breathing patterns;
Have
The patient simulator can operate without physically connecting to an external device,
Patient simulator.   2. The patient simulator according to claim 1, wherein the breathing module system controls at least one air valve.   3. A patient simulator according to claim 2, wherein the breathing module system communicates with the master module and simulates a breathing pattern having parameters defined by the external control system. The patient simulator of claim 3, wherein the patient simulator further comprises:
At least one lung sound module positioned within the patient body and spaced from the master module, the at least one lung sound module simulating lung sounds of the patient Is configured to generate   5. The patient simulator according to claim 4, wherein the at least one lung sound module is linked with the breathing module system, so that the lung sound is linked with a parameter of the breathing pattern defined by the external control system. It is. The patient simulator of claim 1, further comprising:
A heart sound module positioned within the patient body and spaced from the master module, the heart sound module being configured to generate a sound that simulates the patient's heart. The patient simulator of claim 6, wherein the patient simulator further comprises:
A chest compression module positioned within the patient body and spaced from the master module is for monitoring the amount of pressure applied during chest compression.   8. The patient simulator according to claim 7, wherein the compression module communicates with the master module to transmit a compression pressure to the external control system. The patient simulator of claim 8, wherein the patient simulator further comprises:
An intubation module positioned within the patient body and spaced from the master module, the intubation module monitoring the depth of the intubation tube positioned within the tracheal portion of the patient body It is comprised. The patient simulator of claim 9, wherein the patient simulator further comprises:
A ventilation module positioned within the patient body and spaced from the master module, the ventilation module configured to monitor the amount of pressure generated by an external ventilation device; is there.   11. The patient simulator according to claim 10, wherein the ventilation module communicates with the master module to transmit ventilation pressure to the external control system. A patient simulator for teaching patient care,
A patient body that simulates at least a portion of the patient's anatomy;
A master module positioned within the patient body and configured to communicate with an external control system, receives a simulation command from the external control system, and is spaced from the master module within the patient body A master module configured to relay the simulation command to a plurality of task modules configured;
Have
Each of the plurality of task modules is configured to execute a simulation command relayed from the master module.   13. The patient simulator according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of task modules include a heart sound module that generates a sound that simulates the heart of the patient.   13. The patient simulator according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of task modules include a lung sound module that generates sounds that simulate the lungs of the patient.   15. The patient simulator of claim 14, wherein the plurality of task modules include a breathing module that controls a breathing pattern of a simulated pair of lungs positioned within the patient body.   13. The patient simulator according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of task modules include a ventilation module for detecting the amount of pressure provided by an external ventilation device.   13. The patient simulator according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of task modules include a chest compression module that detects an amount of pressure applied to the patient body during chest compression.   13. The patient simulator according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of task modules include an intubation module that monitors a depth of an intubation tube positioned in a tracheal portion of the patient body.   13. The patient simulator of claim 12, wherein the plurality of task modules includes an eye assembly module that controls a pair of simulated eyes of the patient body.   The patient simulator of claim 19, wherein the eye assembly module is configured to control pupil dilation and blinking of the pair of simulated eyes.   13. The patient simulator of claim 12, wherein the plurality of task modules include an ECG module that emits electrical signals that simulate electrical signals emitted by the patient's heart.   23. The patient simulator of claim 21, wherein the ECG module is connected to a pacemaker / defibrillation module that allows external pacing and defibrillation.   13. The patient simulator according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of task modules include a delivery mechanism module for controlling a position of the fetal simulator in the patient body.   13. The patient simulator according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of task modules include a rotation module that controls rotation of the fetal simulator in the patient body.   13. The patient simulator according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of task modules include a release module that selectively releases the fetal simulator from engagement with a delivery mechanism of the patient body. A newborn simulator for teaching patient care,
A body sized to simulate a newborn, and
A simulated heart positioned within the body and providing a simulated heartbeat;
A simulated lung positioned within the body and providing a simulated breathing pattern;
Have
The simulated heart and lung are operable to provide the simulated heart rate and breathing pattern without physically connecting to a device positioned external to the body. .   27. The neonatal simulator according to claim 26, wherein the main body has a head portion, and the head portion is configured to enable suction and delivery of the newborn simulator in a birth simulation. The newborn simulator according to claim 26, further comprising:
It has an output device for communicating simulator information to an external device.   30. The neonatal simulator of claim 28, wherein the output device is configured to communicate wirelessly with a control system.   30. The newborn simulator of claim 29, wherein the newborn simulator is configured to receive commands from the control system. The newborn simulator according to claim 26, further comprising:
Having a compressor positioned within a portion of the simulator and operable to control at least a portion of the simulated lung.   32. The neonatal simulator of claim 31, wherein the compressor is self-cooling.   32. The neonatal simulator of claim 31, wherein the compressor is further operable to control at least a portion of the simulated heart.   34. The neonatal simulator of claim 33, wherein the compressor is connected to a simulated circulation system.   35. The neonatal simulator of claim 34, wherein the compressor is further configured to provide a simulated pulse to the simulated circulation system. 36. The neonatal simulator of claim 35, further comprising:
It has a mechanism for simulating cyanosis.   32. The neonatal simulator according to claim 31, wherein the compressor is positioned within a head portion of the main body. 32. The newborn simulator of claim 31 further comprising:
And a muffler system connected to the compressor.   39. The neonatal simulator according to claim 38, wherein the silencing system includes a first layer made of an acoustic barrier material and a second layer made of a mass barrier material.   27. The neonatal simulator according to claim 26, wherein the main body has a pair of movable arms.   41. The neonatal simulator according to claim 40, wherein the pair of movable arms are configured to accommodate a plurality of types of movement.   42. The neonatal simulator of claim 41, wherein the plurality of types of movement includes movement selected from the group consisting of dragging a foot, normal, and convulsions.   43. The neonatal simulator of claim 42, wherein the movement is at least partially actuated pneumatically by an arm movement driver.   44. The neonatal simulator according to claim 43, wherein the user can restrain the arm while the arm is moving without damaging the arm or the arm movement driver.   41. The neonatal simulator of claim 40, wherein the muscle tone of the pair of arms is selectable.   27. The neonatal simulator of claim 26, wherein the body is sized to approximate an average size neonate for a selected gestational age within a range of about 28 weeks to about 40 weeks. The newborn simulator according to claim 26, further comprising:
It has a speaker that is positioned in the main body and generates voice color. A method of teaching patient care,
Providing a patient simulator having a model of at least a portion of a human body and configured to perform a simulated medical scenario;
Defining a plurality of palette items, wherein each of the plurality of palette items is associated with a physiological state of the patient simulator;
Sequentially linking two or more of the plurality of pallet items to define a first medical scenario;
Communicating the first scenario to the simulator;
Simulating the first scenario using the patient simulator;
Having a method. 49. The method of claim 48, further comprising:
Storing the plurality of palette items and the first scenario on a computer readable medium.   50. The method of claim 49, wherein one or more of the plurality of palette items are user defined. 49. The method of claim 48, further comprising:
Two or more of the plurality of pallet items are sequentially linked to define a second medical scenario.   52. The method of claim 51, wherein at least one of the first and second medical scenarios is user defined.   49. The method according to claim 48, wherein the physiological state of the simulator includes respiratory information.   54. The method of claim 53, wherein the respiratory information includes a respiratory pattern, a respiratory rate, and lung sounds.   55. The method of claim 54, wherein the respiratory information further includes O2 saturation, and the lung sounds have separate left and right lung sounds and separate upper and lower lung sounds.   54. The method of claim 53, wherein the physiological state of the simulator further comprises airway passage state information.   57. The method of claim 56, wherein the airway passage condition information includes information regarding tongue edema, pharyngeal swelling, laryngeal spasms, and upper airway sounds.   49. The method of claim 48, wherein the physiological state of the simulator further comprises circulation information.   59. The method of claim 58, wherein the circulatory information includes heart rhythm, heart rate, and blood pressure.   60. The method of claim 59, wherein the circulatory information further includes heart sounds and distal pulse information.   49. The method of claim 48, wherein the physiological state of the simulator further comprises a voice color. 49. The method of claim 48, further comprising:
And having the user perform simulated patient care on the simulator based on the selected scenario. 64. The method of claim 62, further comprising:
A step of evaluating the user's behavior.   64. The method of claim 63, wherein the step of evaluating user behavior is performed by an instructor.   64. The method of claim 63, wherein the step of evaluating the user's behavior is based at least in part on detection data obtained from the simulator.   49. The method of claim 48, wherein the medical simulator is a maternal simulator used for childbirth simulation. 68. The method of claim 66, further comprising:
Providing a fetal simulator for use with the maternal simulator;
Defining a plurality of fetal palette items, wherein each of the plurality of fetal palette items is associated with a physiological state of the fetal simulator;
Sequentially linking two or more of the plurality of fetal palette items to define a second medical scenario;
Communicating the second scenario to the fetal simulator;
Simulating the second scenario using the fetal simulator;
It is what has.   68. The method of claim 67, wherein the first scenario simulated using the maternal simulator is different from the second scenario simulated using the fetal simulator.   68. The method of claim 67, wherein the second scenario is associated with the first scenario of the maternal simulator.   70. The method of claim 69, wherein the physiological state of the second scenario is based at least in part on a physiological state associated with the first scenario.   71. The method of claim 70, wherein the simulated circulation or breathing problem to the maternal simulator reduces the supply of simulated oxygen to the fetal simulator. A patient simulator system for teaching patient care,
A patient simulator,
A patient body having one or more simulated body parts;
A respiratory system positioned within the patient body and including a pair of lungs for simulating a patient's respiratory pattern;
A patient simulator having a circulatory system positioned within the patient body and simulating at least one circulatory parameter of the patient;
A control system in communication with the patient simulator,
A respiratory physiological model for controlling the simulated respiratory pattern of the respiratory system, the simulation of the respiratory system based at least in part on a treatment given to the patient simulator by a user A respiratory physiological model configured to adjust the respiratory pattern;
A circulatory physiological model for controlling the at least one circulatory parameter of the circulatory system;
A control system having
A patient simulator system.   75. The system of claim 72, wherein the respiratory physiological model controls a respiratory rate and inspiration time of the respiratory system.   75. The system of claim 72, wherein the respiratory physiological model controls oxygen saturation of the respiratory system.   75. The system of claim 72, wherein the respiratory physiological model controls carbon dioxide concentration of the respiratory system.   75. The system of claim 72, wherein the respiratory physiological model controls lung sounds of the respiratory system.   75. The system of claim 72, wherein the circulatory physiological model is configured to adjust the at least one circulatory parameter of the circulatory system based on a treatment given to the patient simulator by a user. .   78. The system of claim 77, wherein the circulatory physiological model controls a cardiac rhythm of the circulatory system.   78. The system of claim 77, wherein the circulatory physiological model controls a heart rate of the circulatory system.   78. The system of claim 77, wherein the circulatory physiological model controls blood pressure of the circulatory system.   78. The system of claim 77, wherein the circulatory physiological model controls heart sounds of the circulatory system.   78. The system of claim 77, wherein the patient simulator is operable without being physically connected to an external device. 78. The system of claim 77, wherein the control system further comprises:
And having a myocardial infarction model that simulates a heart attack by controlling at least one circulatory parameter of the circulatory system.   84. The system of claim 83, wherein the myocardial infarction model controls cardiac oxygenation parameters of the circulatory system.   75. The system of claim 72, wherein the control system further comprises a drug model in communication with at least one of the respiratory model and the circulatory model, the drug model comprising at least one aspect of the respiratory system and circulatory system. Control and simulate the effect of the drug administered to the patient simulator. A patient simulator system for teaching patient care,
A maternal simulator having one or more simulated body parts;
A fetal simulator positioned in the maternal simulator;
A control system in communication with the maternal and fetal simulator, the control system configured to control simulated physical parameters of the maternal simulator and fetal simulator;
Have
The first set of fetal parameters of the fetal simulator is based at least in part on the first set of maternal parameters of the maternal simulator.   90. The system of claim 86, wherein the first set of fetal parameters includes an oxygen supply level.   90. The system of claim 86, wherein the first set of maternal parameters includes a blood oxygen supply level.   90. The system of claim 86, wherein the first set of maternal parameters includes at least one respiratory parameter.   90. The system of claim 89, wherein the at least one respiratory parameter has an oxygen saturation level.   90. The system of claim 86, wherein the fetal simulator is configured to be used separately from the maternal simulator as a newborn simulator after simulated birth.   92. The system of claim 91, wherein the fetus of the newborn simulator includes a first set of newborn parameters based at least in part on the first set of fetal parameters.   94. The system of claim 92, wherein the first set of newborn parameters is associated with an APGAR score for the newborn simulator provided by the control system.

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