A novel interactive virtual needle insertion simulation is presented. Simulation models are based upon planar tissue deformations and forces measured during needle insertion experiments. Users are able to control a three-degree-of-freedom virtual needle as it penetrates a linear elastostatic tissue model, while experiencing steering torques and lateral needle forces through a planar haptic interface. Efficient numerical computation techniques permit fast simulation of relatively complex two-dimensional and three-dimensional environments at haptic control rates.
Simon P. DiMaio, S. E. Salcudean