Ultrasound Trainer Simulation

UST Simulation

This robust, turnkey mixed reality simulator is designed to help novices understand and acquire fundamental cross-sectional literacy and ultrasonography (US) skills. Based on the premise that it is a cognitive overload for novices to learn both US skills and unfamiliar anatomy, the trainer gets rid of anatomy as a “distraction” so that learners can focus on hands-on US skills acquisition. Anatomy is instead replaced by virtual regular and familiar 3D objects like cylinders, cubes and pyramids. Designed for austere environments, this procedure-agnostic simulator does not require wireless or internet access or wet fluids; accepts 110/220V, 50/60Hz. It can be unpacked/set up/be operational by an unfamiliar person in 5-7 minutes. The portable simulator fits inside a military-spec padded case with inbuilt wheels and telescoping pull-handle that meets airline checked luggage size limits (L+W+H=60”), weight < 70lbs.

For information about this simulation technologies, contact Sem Lampotang at

Procedures

- PART (use all DoF of US Probe)
- Scout Scan
- Needling (tilt peak and slide)
- Maintaining a short axis view while following a vessel
- Sidedness

Components

- Virtual, regular and familiar 3D objects such as cones and cylinders encased in gel
- Virtual model of simplified targets and no go areas
- Tracked instruments: needle, ultrasound probe, virtual camera (interoperable between SMARTS-compliant simulators)
- Common SMARTS modular stand for use with other modular anatomies and procedures
- Automated scoring and replay system for after action review (AAR)
- Instructional materials teach fundamental cross-sectional literacy skills and ultrasonography techniques and procedures

Technology

- Adheres to SMARTS (System of Modular Augmented Reality Tracking Simulators) rapid sim. development platform specs
- Quick-release placement and indexing of SMARTS-compliant anatomies to SMARTS platform
- Uses familiar, regular 3D objects like cylinders and cones that have readily recognizable reference planes or features
- Precise sub-millimeter tracking of all events
- High-durability, skin-like replaceable skin-like

Features

- Integrated structured curriculum
- Adjustable virtual ultrasound targets and difficulty levels
- Adjustable view modes for realism and AARs
- Ultrasound probe with depth markers
- Debriefing with replay of past/saved procedure
- Hybrid cross-sectional view (3D viz in back half)
- Anisotropy simulation for needles and other objects
- Cognitive aids for US probe and needle orientation
- Tactile feedback of bone and ligament puncture

Patents

- US Patent 9,251,721
- Other patents pending

UST Simulator Demonstrations

UST Demonstration - Video
UST Tablet OneTouch - Video
UST Android OneTouch - Video

News/Press

UST enters the AMA Healthier Nation Innovation Challenge - Vote Here
Mixed reality simulators training treatment for injured soldiers - Article

Abstracts

Publications

Posters

Resources and Screenshots

One Page Fact Sheet - PDF
UST components - Image
UST Screenshot (alignment) - Image
UST Screenshot (needle placement) - Image