Medical Devices and Cardiopulmonary Simulation Laboratory

The overarching aim of VentLab is to model and simulate both the human respiratory and cardiovascular systems for diverse application in teaching and research. This includes detailed representations of the physiological and anatomical aspects of the respiratory system, along with fundamental simulations of the cardiovascular system.

Ultimately, we aim to gain a deeper understanding of the functioning of these vital physiological systems and to develop innovative approaches for testing and evaluating treatments for respiratory diseases and conditions. Furthermore, it aims to develop educational tools to aid in the teaching of cardiovascular system concepts.

The foundation of our 3D modeling and printing capabilities lies in our collaboration with clinical partners, leveraging CT/MT/Ultrasound imaging studies to capture the intricate geometry of the human upper respiratory tract. These images undergo preprocessing and quality assessment checks to ensure accuracy and reliability. Utilizing segmentation techniques, we extract the upper airways, spanning from oral and nasal cavities to the first bifurcation, resulting in highly detailed 3D models. These models are then postprocessed and can be employed for a variety of purposes, including 3D printing and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Our 3D printed models find application in diverse studies, such as medical aerosol inhalation research, and can seamlessly integrate into our xPULM simulator or be utilized independently to advance our understanding of respiratory physiology and pathology.

Segmentation & Reconstruction

Manufacturing

Our research utilizes Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to gain a deep understanding of airflow, pressure distribution, and material stress within detailed models of the respiratory system. These models, often segmented from CT scans, allow us to focus on specific regions, particularly the upper airways, to investigate particle deposition with high accuracy.  CFD offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional methods, providing valuable insights into how factors like breathing patterns and particle size influence where inhaled particles land. By comprehensively analyzing flow, pressure, and stress, we can optimize particle delivery, ultimately paving the way for improved inhaled therapies for respiratory diseases.

Meshed Models

Example of Results

Velocity & Pressure Contours

Particle Deposition & Movement

In the area of aerosol technologies, we offer a versatile array of devices tailored to address specific research inquiries. Our laboratory boasts a comprehensive selection of both solid and liquid aerosol generators, with capabilities of delivering mono- or polydisperse aerosols based on the study’s requirements. Additionally, we utilize a diverse range of medical aerosol delivery devices, including dry powder inhalers (DPIs), pressurized metered dose inhalers (pMDI), and medical nebulizers employing various working principles.

To complement our aerosol generation capabilities, we employ state-of-the-art optical aerosol spectrometers for continuous characterization of the generated aerosols in terms of particle size distribution (PSD) and particle number concentration (PNC). These devices integrate with our 3D airway models, the xPULM simulator, and other components through custom connectors and measurement setups, enabling comprehensive aerosol studies.

Our goal in the area of Mechanical Ventilation is to bring the intricacies of mechanical ventilation closer to students. They can interact with ventilation machines from various manufacturers, each designed for different purposes. One of our key research questions is patient-ventilator asynchrony, which occurs when there is a mismatch between the support delivered by the ventilator and the patient’s requirements. The xPULM simulator can act as a mechanically ventilated patient in these settings, providing an invaluable hands-on learning experience.

In the area of Cardiovascular System Simulation, our primary focus is the development of a mock-up simulation circuit designed to enhance teaching across various subjects. This project involves the implementation of sensors to measure critical characteristics throughout the simulated cardiac cycle, providing a realistic and interactive learning experience. In parallel, we are developing software to process and visualize the data collected. The work is kindly supported by experts from the Medical University of Vienna’s Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering.

In the realm of respiratory research, various activities are undertaken, including electro-mechanical simulation of both adult and pediatric lungs, aerosol generation and measurement, mechanical ventilation, and ex-vivo lung perfusion.

Current projects are concentrated on utilizing the electromechanical lung simulator xPULM for pediatric research in collaboration with clinical partners.

Focus Topic Lead

FH-Prof. Ing. Richard Paštěka, MSc., Ph.D.

Senior Lecturer/Researcher

+43 1 333 40 77 - 2602richard.pasteka@technikum-wien.atDetails