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Exploring Human Anatomy with Simpleware Software and Simulation
Posted on 12 February 2025 by Jessica James
The creation of human body models from 3D imaging data is helping us simulate how consumer products and medical devices interact with our anatomy. We offer Simpleware human body models based on high-quality CAD, CT, and MRI data. Customers can also work with us to create specific models from their datasets and develop custom workflows and AI automation steps. Here are two recent highlights from our users, showcasing the use of advanced 3D imaging and simulation techniques to enhance our understanding of human physiology.
Electrical Stimulation of Nerve Bundles in the Lower Leg Generates Tactile Sensations on the Plantar and Dorsal Foot
Ota, T., Amemiya, T., Kuzuoka, H., Aoyama, K., 2024. . IEEE Access, 12, 188914-188925.
Model used in the simulation. (a) Several domains in the model. (b) Location of major ankle nerves in the model. (c) Model imported into COMSOL Multiphysics. ( by Ota et al. / / Resized from original).
Tactile sensations in the feet provide crucial information about the ground and can enhance virtual reality experiences. However, conventional tactile displays are limited by needing to be attached to the location where a sensation is presented, reducing the realism of the experience. Researchers at the University of Tokyo explored an alternative approach by attaching multiple electrodes to the ankle and using transcutaneous nerve electrical stimulation (TENS).
Using a solid 3D male model of the lower limb (Zygote Medical Group, Inc.) with 1200 components from CT and MRI, researchers simulated stimulation. Simpleware software segmented the image data, filling unnatural gaps using paint and Boolean operation functions. Cathodes and anodes were manually attached to the skin model, which was then exported as a volumetric mesh in the NASTRAN format for modeling electrical stimulation in COMSOL Multiphysics?.
Results showed that the nerve bundle with the highest current density varied according to the stimulation position, allowing selective presentation of tactile sensations to the foot. The simulation was compared to a physical user study, which identified effective electrical stimulation conditions that could not be determined virtually. Future work aims to refine this methodology to enhance tactile sensations for virtual reality users.
Development of Female and Male Thermoregulatory Models using COMSOL
Gutierrez, S., Jacques, J., Rioux, T., Castellani, J., Xu, X., 2024. . COMSOL Conference 2024.
Most thermoregulation models do not reflect the complexity of the human body but can be improved using advanced and accurate scans of human cadavers to better simulate physical processes. In this project, the US Navy used Simpleware software to create female and male meshes from Duke University’s XCAT phantom dataset. These models were imported into COMSOL Multiphysics? software to study human thermoregulatory mechanisms and the heat transfer properties of multiple organs.
These simulations provide insights into physiological properties such as conductivity and blood perfusion. Results showed temperature differences in male and female thermoregulation under various climate conditions, aiding in the analysis and prediction of how the human body reacts to varying ambient temperatures. From this data, researchers can develop methods to prevent heat and cold strain while improving human performance.
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- Read about Simpleware software to generate simulation-ready models from 3D image data
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