The invention relates to a virtual OP simulator (10) for training for
minimal-invasive operations, in particular for endourological
interventions, having a simulation calculator unit (12), at least one
instrument (40), at least one instrument input unit (30) for picking up
the instrument (40), with the instrument input unit (30) allowing and
recording movement of the instrument (40) in a predetermined number of
degrees of freedom, and a force feedback unit (60) which is associated
with the instrument input unit (30) and applies variable forces to the
instrument (40) directly or indirectly via the instrument input unit
(30). A monitoring control unit (20) is provided, which is connected to
the simulation computer unit (12) and to the instrument input unit (30),
with the monitoring control unit (20) having a first interface (24) which
provides communication of parameters between the monitoring control unit
(20) and the simulation computer unit (12) at a speed in the region of
the video framing rate, and having a second interface (26) which provides
communication of parameters with the instrument input unit (30) at a
speed which is higher than, in particular a multiple of, the video
framing rate, and with the instrument input unit (30) allowing at least
four degrees of freedom, detecting movements of the instrument (40)
within these degrees of freedom, supplying corresponding signals to the
monitoring control unit (20) and receiving signals for the force feedback
unit (60), at least some of which are generated by the simulation
computer unit (12).