Multi-scale simulation for microsurgery trainer

For use in a Virtual Reality based training system for surgical micromanipulation, we have developed a fast multi-scale FEM algorithm that concentrates detail where needed while still handling global deformations. The resulting 6-to-7-fold speed up is promising for the development of real-time simulation of the mechanical response of a virtual organ or tissue. FEM algorithm uses elements from multiple levels in a hierarchy of mesh similar to the progressive mesh. This algorithm has been integrated with a visual/haptic feedback workstation.