Dynamic model of peristaltic pump with arterial tree for real-time pressure waveform control

Despite many studies confirming that roller pumps are more suitable for cardiovascular bypasses or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation sessions than centrifugal flow pumps, they do not reach their potential, mainly due to unpredictable pressure pulsations causing negative effects on the vessels and organs. The aim of this research is to create a dynamic model of a hydraulic system consisting of a peristaltic pump connected to an arterial tree. Conventional methods of modelling such systems use computationally intensive Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) or Fluid-structure interaction (FSI) simulations and are usually designed to analyze the properties of such mechanisms. Such models do not allow the control of the system in real time, and therefore it is reasonable to create a simplified mathematical model that allows feedback adaptive control of the outlet pressure depending on the parameters of the system. This newly created model can be used to design a controller for the speed of the pump to achieve a physiologically relevant pressure wave. Model was verified on a physical plant consisting of a stepper motor-driven pump with an arterial tree made of silicone tubes that simulates the resistance of the vascular circulation.