Benefits of object-oriented models and ModeliChart: modern tools and methods for the interdisciplinary research on smart biomedical technology

Abstract

Computational models of biophysical systems generally constitute an essential component in the realization of smart biomedical technological applications. Typically, the development process of such models is characterized by a great extent of collaboration between different interdisciplinary parties. Furthermore, due to the fact that many underlying mechanisms and the necessary degree of abstraction of biophysical system models are unknown beforehand, the steps of the development process of the application are iteratively repeated when the model is refined. This paper presents some methods and tools to facilitate the development process. First, the principle of object-oriented (OO) modeling is presented and the advantages over classical signal-oriented modeling are emphasized. Second, our self-developed simulation tool ModeliChart is presented. ModeliChart was designed specifically for clinical users and allows independently performing in silico studies in real time including intuitive interaction with the model. Furthermore, ModeliChart is capable of interacting with hardware such as sensors and actuators. Finally, it is presented how optimal control methods in combination with OO models can be used to realize clinically motivated control applications. All methods presented are illustrated on an exemplary clinically oriented use case of the artificial perfusion of the systemic circulation.

In Vivo Evaluation of a Novel Control Algorithm for Left Ventricular Assist Devices Based Upon Ventricular Stroke Work

“…14 There, we accessed the data stream from within our self-developed simulation tool ModeliChart. 15 Both physiologic control strategies were implemented in Simulink, 16 which was connected to ModeliChart to receive the relevant data input for the control strategies. We also used the same setup to provide the computed LVAD speed to the speed controller, which was a custom-made pump motor controller that allows the VAD (ventricular assist device) speed to be set directly according to digitally transmitted signal messages.…”

Proceedings of The American Modelica Conference 2018, October 9-10, Somberg Conference Center, Cambridge MA, USA

“…Modelica therefore appears to be a highly promising tool for publishing and sharing models. Some researchers have already adopted Modelica as their prefered modeling tool, e. g. (Heinke, Pereira, Leonhardt, & Walter, 2015;Maksuti, Bjällmark, & Broomé, 2015), even switched from the SimScape (de Canete, 2015), or use the general model exchange functional mockup interface, based on Modelica initiative (Gesenhues et al, 2017). The developers of the most complete physiological model Hummod are also considering using Modelica implementation to make the model easier to maintain (R. Hester, personal communication, August 2018).…”