Bridging Medical Simulation and Robotics: ASystematic Analysis of Manikin Adaptation for Advanced Applications

Introduction: Medical simulation manikins have evolved to include advanced sensor networks, actuators, and physiological modeling capabilities. However, their potential applications in robotics remain underexplored, and there is a lack of comprehensive analysis of opportunities and implementation challenges. Methods: This scoping review examined research from the IEEE Xplore, PubMed, ACM Digital Library, SpringerLink, and Elsevier databases (1969-2024). Out of 156 initial studies, 64 met the inclusion criteria, focusing on adapting medical manikins for robotics. The analysis investigated hardware modifications, software integrations, and hybrid implementation strategies. Results: Analysis revealed three main development paths: hardware adaptation evolving from basic sensor integration to intricate musculoskeletal framework (15 studies); software integration progressing from rule-based responses to biomimetic control architectures (22 studies); and hybrid approaches that combine physical manikins with mixed reality interfaces (18 studies). Nine additional studies investigated convergent applications in humanoid robotics and dynamic tactile systems. Discussion: Findings indicate significant potential for cross-disciplinary innovation in biomimetic control systems and human-robot interaction. Major challenges include achieving seamless hardware-software integration while upholding anatomical accuracy. Future development should emphasize standardized integration frameworks and modular architectures supporting simulation and robotics applications. Conclusion: Repurposing medical manikins for robotics presents transformative potential for human-robot interaction and biomedical engineering. Achieving success requires tackling integration challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration and standardized frameworks.