Mathematical and physical models of a total artificial heart

Applications of mathematical and physical analog models of total artificial heart (TAH) play a significant role in simulating human cardiovascular system. Instead of a hydraulic model, an inexpensive, compact and simple electrical circuit consisting of resistances, capacitances, inductances and diodes has been constructed, using parametric values that are transformed from hydraulic models. Results from this electrical circuit are confirmed by simulation results and are comparable with the normal human pressure waveforms so that these results may be shown to be useful in clinical experiments. In order to obtain the more accurate model than those used in prior investigations in the literature, a baroreceptor model has been introduced to the artificial heart model. The baroreceptor model plays an important role in short term blood pressure control and heart rate regulation. A dSPACE system (for developing and testing mechatronic control systems) has been implemented so as to control the electrical model of the TAH in real-time. Cardiac diseases such as aortic insufficiency as well as Heart Rate Control are presented in case studies. Results also show that the model can be used in the simulation and control of real dynamic processes of the artificial heart.