Design of a Modular Simulator Prototype for Psychomotor Training in Laparoscopic Surgery with Automated Evaluation

Abstract:

Training in laparoscopic surgery poses technical challenges due to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure and the need to develop specific psychomotor skills such as bimanual coordination, depth perception, and instrument precision. Although commercial simulators exist, their high-cost limits accessibility in many training environments. To address this need, a modular simulator prototype was developed for the training of basic laparoscopic skills, integrating an automated evaluation system capable of recording objective performance metrics without requiring direct supervision. The development process included the creation of physical training modules using CAD modeling, additive manufacturing with PLA and TPU, silicone-based anatomical elements, and a control unit based on the ESP32-WROOM for real-time data acquisition and processing. The resulting simulator, composed of three functional modules, demonstrated anatomical and technical fidelity and was capable of processing and classifying user performance based on execution time and precision. The evaluation system was structured using adapted criteria from the FLS, OSATS, and GOALS standards, providing methodological robustness. Functional testing confirmed the system’s operability, data integrity, and responsiveness under simulated conditions. The simulator enables objective, formative, and autonomous assessment of psychomotor performance and presents strong potential for implementation in preclinical surgical training programs.

• Periodical: Journal of Biomimetics, Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering (Volume 71)
• Pages: 119-128
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-LuQ1i0
• Online since: February 2026
• Authors: Dereck Manuel Torres Carvajal*
• Keywords: Formative Assessment, Laparoscopic Simulator, Modular System, Psychomotor Development, Surgical Training

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