Chula’s Interactive Canine Anatomy Model Wins Global Awards 

Studying anatomy for veterinary students at Chulalongkorn University traditionally relies on memorizing muscles from preserved dog cadavers. However, these specimens often deteriorate over time, with tissues becoming stiff and difficult to manipulate, leading to inconsistent quality. In addition, the shortage of real dog cadavers poses a significant challenge to teaching and learning. 

Asst. Prof. Dr. Pawana Chuesiri from the Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, together with Mr. Phakdee Sutthanom, Ms. Jantima Intarapanya (department staff), and Mr. Kritchayot Chueasiri, a student from the Faculty of Communication Arts Innovation at Srinakharinwirot University, developed an interactive canine anatomy model to address these challenges. The innovation has brought pride to both Chulalongkorn University and Thailand by winning five international awards at the 7th International Exhibition INVENTCOR 2026 in Romania:  

• INVENTCOR 2026 Gold Medal Award 
• INVENTCOR 2026 Best Category Award (Veterinary Medicine – Category G)—certificate & trophy
• Special Award from the World Invention Intellectual Property Associations (WIIPA) – certificate & medal 
• Special Award from Haller Pro Inventio Foundation, Poland – certificate & medal 
• Special Award from the National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest, Romania – certificate only 

Winning both the Gold Medal and the Best Category Award in Veterinary Medicine confirms that this innovation is recognized as one of the best in the field. 

Key Features of the Interactive Model 

The model is designed for teaching anatomy to veterinary students using a dual-model system: 

Model A (LED Topography) 

A life-sized Chihuahua model equipped with 43 LED points along the left side of the body. Students can press buttons labeled with muscle names in English to illuminate the correct anatomical positions. The lights are color-coded by physiological function: 

• Red: 27 flexor muscle points 
• Black: 11 extensor muscle points 
• Green: 5 adductor/abductor muscle points 

It also includes an MP3 audio system that provides guided explanations, simulating the presence of an instructor. 

Model B (Biomechanical Simulation) 

This model simulates the movement of a Thai dog’s forelimbs and hindlimbs. It accurately reproduces joint motion ranges based on anatomical principles, such as the following:

• Elbow joint: 36–166 degrees 
• Knee joint: 41–162 degrees 

This allows students to visualize how muscles function during real movement—something cadavers cannot demonstrate. 

Development and Impact 

The project began in 2025 with research funding from the Faculty of Veterinary Science. It has already been implemented in the Anatomy 1 course for first-year veterinary students at Chulalongkorn University. Results showed a significant improvement in student knowledge, with scores increasing from 37% to 93% after using the model. 

A unique aspect of the model is its use of recycled materials, such as plastic bottle caps and foam, bonded with resin and enhanced with natural rubber to enable joint flexibility. The exterior is covered with special fabric for realism. This approach also helps reduce reliance on imported teaching tools. 

Future Applications 

The model has gained growing interest and may be used in dog training centers, particularly for teaching first aid and resuscitation. Trainers and veterinarians often struggle to communicate injuries or muscle issues to dog owners due to the lack of visual aid. This model helps clearly identify problem areas. 

There are also plans to introduce the model to K9 USAR Thailand (search and rescue dogs) to support muscle rehabilitation and proper physical training after intensive work. 

Looking ahead, the Faculty of Veterinary Science aims to commercialize innovation in collaboration with private companies under a spin-off initiative called CU Vet Best Model, managed by CU Vet Enterprise. Future developments will expand to cat anatomy models and feline resuscitation simulators.

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