Generalizing Pneumatic-Based Augmented Haptics Palpation Training Simulator
A generalized palpation training platform combining electro-pneumatic hardware, silicone-made actuators, and body mannequins to simulate diverse medical abnormalities across prostate, thyroid, and pulse palpation scenarios.
Researchers: Aishwari Talhan and Seokhee Jeon
Augmented haptics enables us to experience enhanced reality with high fidelity by combining real and virtual environments, with applications in medicine, telemedicine, entertainment, telerobotics, and education. Palpation is the most preliminary procedure used to perceive, diagnose, and treat physical problems, and can be categorized as passive (localized abnormalities such as tumors) or active/dynamic (real-time perception such as pulse and heartbeats).
Having previously demonstrated an augmented haptic prostate palpation (DRE) simulator using pneumatic actuation, this work generalizes the approach for palpation training simulators using augmented haptics and pneumatics. The complete system consists of original electro-pneumatic hardware, various silicone-made actuators, body mannequins, and a supportive library of abnormalities across multiple body parts and organs, demonstrated across three palpation scenarios: prostate palpation, thyroid gland (neck), and pulse.
