A scenario-driven framework for reproducible in silico testing of physiological closed-loop control systems

Current Directions in Biomedical Engineering, vol. 12, pp. 398–401

Abstract

Abstract Physiological closed-loop control systems (PCLCS) are safety critical and require rigorous evaluation. Yet, in silico testing is often limited by study-specific setups with restricted reproducibility, traceability, and reusability. This work presents a modular, scenario-driven framework for traceable and reproducible testing of PCLCS. The framework decouples models, controllers, and testing scenarios, enabling structured and modular composition of experiments from reusable components. Parameter sets can be derived from literature ranges or fitted from data to provide patient-specific models (digital twins). Experiments are encoded in a structured, version-controllable format for advanced traceability. We demonstrate the framework using a closedloop mechanical ventilation controller for neonates and a neonatal patient model. Two experiments are conducted: setpoint tracking with and without spontaneous breathing, and replication of a previous in vivo experiment using a subjectspecific digital twin. Results illustrate evaluation across physiological variations with fully reproducible execution. This approach provides a foundation for rigorous and transparent testing of PCLCS.

Authors 5

1. Valerie Pfannschmidt Aachen Chair of Embedded Software

   RWTH Aachen University

   Affiliation as printed

   Chair of Embedded Software, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen , Germany

2. Michael Schael Aachen Chair of Embedded Software

   RWTH Aachen University

   Affiliation as printed

   Chair of Embedded Software, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen , Germany

3. Lena Olivier Aachen Division of Neonatology Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine

   Universitätsklinikum Aachen · RWTH Aachen University

   Affiliation as printed

   Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, Aachen , Germany

4. Mark Schoberer Aachen Division of Neonatology Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine

   Universitätsklinikum Aachen · RWTH Aachen University

   Affiliation as printed

   Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, Aachen , Germany

5. André Stollenwerk Aachen Chair of Embedded Software

   RWTH Aachen University

   Affiliation as printed

   Chair of Embedded Software, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen , Germany