Design Objectives

The goal of this design project was to create a foal manikin to be used in obstetric training. This life-size structure was to be capable of being manipulated into positions typically encountered during the foal birthing process.  Certain anatomic details we included will help the obstetric students identify the position of the foal within the uterus, and to learn the correct orientation for delivery. The surface of the manikin is water-resistant, long-lasting, and capable of tolerating the lubricant that must be applied when reenacting birth.

The following are the specifications provided by the design sponsor:

• Near life size, approximately 2-2.5 ft tall (ground to wither) and approximately 40 pounds
• Approximate shape of horse, complex features are not necessary including eyes or moving mouth
• Include a tail or other indication, that when touched, can be distinguished as the rear end of the horse
• Include approximate detail of hoof to aid in assessing the foals position
• Definition in chin area of head
• An external skin that can tolerate water based lubricating gels and subsequent washing with water
• External skin does not have to be removable
• Flexibility to allow the neck and legs to be bent and manipulated into various abnormal foaling positions, joints that are too flexible are acceptable, joint must move in proper anatomic position
• Does not have to be free standing
• Does not have to move via motors or other electronics