Belén Curto Diego

Applying a software framework for supervisory control of a PLC-based flexible manufacturing systems

In this paper, a software framework for a distributed flexible manufacturing system is presented where, as a main design goal, we consider that the functionalities are offered to other components with no effects on the robustness of the system and where security specifications are tackled without the flexibility losses. In this way, the use of the supervisory control theory (SCT) is considered. Also, a methodology that makes it easier to implement these functionalities at a PLC-based system is presented. A real application of the developed framework is presented, and the implementation is done over an industrial-size device, so the technical feasibility of the methodology is proved. As the framework considers the services offered by the device, it can be used at different manufacturing tasks, so the approach can be applied to any kind of industrial process unit.

Using Robotics as a Learning Tool in Latin America and Spain

Robotics has become a learning tool for multiple environments in ordinary school and after-school programs. This paper presents the perceptions of 127 teachers who teach educational robotics (ER) in Latin America and Spain at several preuniversity education levels. The studied dimensions were: 1) teacher profile; 2) technological resources; 3) learning activities; 4) environmental characteristics; and 5) learning outcomes. The analysis suggests that learning outcomes in ER activities are related to attributes of the learning environment and the pedagogical approach.

Technologic 3D view design of the anatomical structures with teaching purpose

In this study we present design of a visualization tool of three-dimensional anatomic structures applied to teaching activities, that provides great improvements in medical education. This study will grant both, teachers and students, tools that facilitate the process of teaching and learning, building a new realistic system of body morphology. We use specific software to design the anatomical structures of the human body. We analyze each of the necessary tools to create and edit all different musculoskeletal system parts. We rely on different anatomical atlas references at all times, as well as on the visible human project, which is very important to our study. Our final purpose will be to get remarkable improvement in the optimal visualization of the different body structures and at several positions of bodies area.

Use of new technologies in the acquisition of clinical skills in anesthesiology

The objective of the study was evaluate the use of new technologies during residence period by residents of Anesthesiology to acquire theoretical contents and learning or improving practice clinical skills. Moreover, we wanted to know if Castilla y León hospitals had technology to do that and also if residents would spend any free time (out of working hours) in training with this technologies. To do that, we designed cross sectional study involving 46 residents of Anesthesia and Resuscitation of different hospitals in Castilla y León. 83% of survey respondents have used or use usually new technologies to acquire theoretical knowledge, meanwhile only 10% use them to acquire or improve practice clinical skills. All survey respondents would spend part of their free time in training with technology, out or their working hours. The majority of the residents of Anesthesiology do not use new technologies to acquire or improve practice clinical skills.

Medical training for echo-guided infiltration of Botulinum toxin by an echograph simulator

Taking self-learning or e-learning as a model and by the application of new technologies, we introduce the software application of an echograph simulator, a very useful tool to nurture knowledge and training of the health professionals, integrating the images taken during echograph exploration with the anatomical knowledge, key for the the infiltration of the botulinum toxin in the treatment context or when addressing spasticity. The application of this echograph simulator allows us to virtually explore muscular groups both of the upper and lower limb, as well as point out the best spots where the correct and precise infiltration of the toxin in the spastic muscle can be done, identifying the structures seen in the echograph. Illustrations of sectioned anatomy taken from nuclear magnetic resonance (RMN) images of the common regions for echo-guided infiltration are included, where the different anatomic structures that comprise them are highlighted. The main objective is to introduce a training tool for the doctor, in order to get a better knowledge grade and better practical skills in the infiltration of the botulinum toxin when dealing with spasticity.