Part of this study was to assemble and test hardware in the loop (HIL) technology-based hybrid mock flow flop (MFL) to be used for experimental validation of fluid flow in Fontan Circulation. The prim..
Part of this study was to assemble and test hardware in the loop (HIL) technology-based hybrid mock flow flop (MFL) to be used for experimental validation of fluid flow in Fontan Circulation. The primary purpose of the hardware setup is to accurately simulate blood flow within hearts affected by SVCHD (Single Ventricular Congenital Heart Disease) and use an infrared camera to study lagrangian fluid flow to validate the data. This experiment tests and monitors two geometries implementing a bifurcating graft for jet injection using pressure and flow rate sensors. The fluid flow response is altered via resistance valves and a pump based on existing patient data for vascular resistance and compliances. The first geometry, simulating blood flow post-Fontan procedure, leaked fluid regardless of how many times it was sealed. To properly conserve mass within the flow, this geometry will need to be reconsidered in the future. The second geometry, implemented into a separate, hybrid MFL, did not leak but snapped at the IJS protrusion during assembly. The material failure was likely due to having a torque applied by a metal O-ring that connected the IJS to the MFL tubing. As a result, the whole geometry had to be reprinted for testing. Additional research is needed for the development of a dye injection system to track fluid flow at the injection jet section. Keywords: Fontan, MFL, SVCHD, HIL