A sensorless approach to control of a turbodynamic left ventricular assist system

A fuzzy logic controller for a rotary, turbodynamic left ventricular assist system was developed to optimize the delivery of blood flow without inducing suction in the ventricle. The controller is based on the pulsatility in blood flow through the pump and assumes that the natural heart is still able to produce some pumping action. To avoid the use of flow transducers, which are not reliable for long term use, the controller estimates flow using a model of the assist device. The controller was tested in computer simulation, a mock circulatory system, and in animal experiments. Simulation studies suggest that the fuzzy logic controller is more robust to parameter changes than a traditional proportional-integral (PI) controller. Experimental results in animals showed that the controller is able to provide satisfactory flows at adequate perfusion pressures while avoiding suction in the left ventricle.