Engineering students at Universitas Dian Nuswantoro (Udinus) have successfully created a heart simulation device that closely mimics the movement of a real human heart. This innovative device, named ATOM or Animatronic Phantom, received funding through the Student Creativity Program for 2023 in the field of Creative Invention (PKM-KC).

The ‘ATOM’ team is coordinated by Frisca Widya Febriana, a student of Biomedical Engineering, along with two members Savira Anggraini Putri, and Nisa Rosafina, from the Biomedical Engineering Program, and two other members from the Electrical Engineering Study Program, Agnes Auldy Amelia Ibanez and Erla Aldianita Citra. This team is instructed by Menik Dwi Kurniatie, S.Si., M.Biotech, a lecturer from the Study Program of Biomedical Engineering.

During the PKM event, Udinus was included as one of the universities that took part in the program which was initiated by the Directorate General of Higher Education of the Ministry of Education and Culture (Ditjen Diktiristek) through Belmawa or the Directorate of Learning and Student Affairs. In total, there are 678 universities across Indonesia, with a total of 17.106 students contributing to this program.

Frisca Widya Febriana, the leader of the 'Atom' team, explained the purpose of developing the device. This simulation device serves as a tool for learning anatomy and mimics the effects of a real human heart. She shared that the team's goal in creating this simulation device was to enhance the learning process, making it more interactive and effective while meeting the curiosity of every student.

“We aimed to simplify the learning process by introducing an artificial organ. With this device, users can experience a realistic heartbeat, replicating the size and dimensions of a real human heart. Users can also directly observe various heart rate levels, including those at rest, under normal conditions, and during physical activities,” said Frisca.

Frisca says that ATOM is powered by a servo drive, giving the lifelike effect of a real human heart. There is also a potentiometer inside this device, which is used to set the heat rate level inside. On the outside, this device is covered with silicon, colored, and shaped like a real heart organ.

“Hopefully, we will successfully complete this creativity program to its fullest potential. In addition to that, we have high expectations that this device will be beneficial for all,” emphasized Frisca.

During an interview, Menik Dwi Kurniatie, S.Si., M.Biotech. as the instructor said that the Student Creativity Program was an effort to foster students’ creativity and innovation. Based on her understanding, the event played an important role in building a student’s character.

“Other than that, students can develop their thinking and action skills by participating in PKM activities. We expect them to complete this program effectively and to the best of their abilities, ensuring their eligibility for the next stage,” she uttered. (Udinus Public Relation/Alex. Photo: Doc. Faculty of Engineering Udinus).