
Biomedical Engineering
Students focus on medical devices and biologicals for improving medical care.
The BME Capstone experience is intended to mirror the type of experiences new graduates will face when they begin their careers. In this context, the student team members learn project management and organization skills, enhance their technical breadth and depth, apply newly-acquired knowledge, and develop their documentation and presentation abilities.
Sponsors
The Fall 2024 Biomedical Engineering Symposium has been made possible by a generous contribution from our event sponsor.

Biomedical Engineering Symposium
Students display health care technology innovations poised to address the ever pressing and challenging unmet clinical needs that persist throughout the world.
Graduate applied projects
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Abstract Magic Angle Spinning (MAS) Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy is known for its ability to produce sharper, more resolved peaks compared to traditional liquid chemical extraction NMR. The broad, poorly resolved peaks typically observed in liquid NMR average out in solid-state MAS, resulting in higher quality data, especially when applied to complex samples such…
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Abstract Multisensory integration is a complex integration of multiple senses used to form percepts that are critical for interacting with one’s surroundings. Mixed reality platforms are a way to study multisensory integration. In a recent study from the lab, a mixed reality platform was used to examine effects of different tactile cues and arm visual…
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Abstract Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a neurosurgical treatment that uses electrical stimulation to targeted portions of the brain to treat conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, Tourettes, OCD, and obesity. The current Leksell frame Adjuster is an antiquated device that neurosurgeons have been using that is very tedious and outdated for them. I will…
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Abstract Assessing the data quality and overall presence of current excited signal is an important stage of screening and processing the data produced from Magnetic Resonance Electrical Impedance Tomography (MREIT) experiments. To do this, Signal to Noise (SNR) analysis and two methods of subtractive comparison were utilized. The data analyzed consisted of previously collected MREIT…
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Abstract Assessing the data quality and overall presence of current excited signal is an important stage of screening and processing the data produced from Magnetic Resonance Electrical Impedance Tomography (MREIT) experiments. To do this, Signal to Noise (SNR) analysis and two methods of subtractive comparison were utilized. The data analyzed consisted of previously collected MREIT…
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Abstract Stress significantly impacts cognitive function, health, and overall well-being, with auditory stressors, such as occupational noise, posing a frequent challenge in both professional and personal environments. This study investigates the relationship between auditory stress, physiological stress responses measured through Galvanic Skin Response (GSR), and cognitive performance using Stroop and Hopkins Verbal Learning Task (HVLT)…
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Abstract Early gestation placental immunology and nutrient transport have been poorly understood due to limitations in ethical constraints and inadequate animal model replication. Current placenta-on-a-chip models offer a controlled approach for placental studies but lack precision in early gestation stages. Before developing a fully 3D printed microfluidic chip that models early placental interactions between placental…
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Abstract The importance of effective recovery strategies in reducing fatigue, enhancing performance, and preventing injuries has driven interest in evaluating innovative footwear solutions. This study aimed to investigate the role of different footwear types in enhancing peripheral circulation, focusing on their ability to influence blood oxygenation and delivery. By analyzing changes in oxygenated hemoglobin (O2Hb)…
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Abstract The advancement of medical technology has led to the development of innovative devices aimed at enhancing patient care and monitoring. This project focuses on the design and fabrication of an IoT-enabled infusion syringe pump integrated with a biosensing system for telemedicine applications. The system combines Arduino-based technology, a ball screw linear guide for precise…
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Abstract The Leksell Frame is a device used in stereotactic surgery, commonly for Deep Brain Surgery (DBS). The device requires manual adjustments and soft tapping using a screw to set the target location on the brain. It is prone to human error, limiting its precision and efficiency. The aim of the project is to modernize…
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Abstract Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. While many safety interventions have been implemented to reduce occurrence, the options to treat TBI post injury are severely lacking. In order to address this need, this project presents preclinical evidence on the use of tolerogenic vaccines to reduce neuro inflammation…
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Abstract Gaze shifts in sports provide important visual cues for anticipating and adapting to dynamic play situations. Volleyball athletes have been shown to rely heavily on gaze shifts from the ball to the spiker, particularly during blocking. Effective volleyball performance hinges on this gaze behavior, however, gaze shift patterns necessary for blocking success remain unclear….
Undergraduate biomedical capstone projects
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Abstract This project aims to create an alternative to current hypothyroidism treatments through the concept of a multi-layer T4-delivering patch. This patch would be applied to the surface of the skin and diffuse transdermally into the bloodstream for a more localized delivery. The design consists of a hydrogel scaffold, about half of which will be…
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Abstract Our team is seeking to design an endovascular shunt system for treating obstructive hydrocephalus. Hydrocephalus occurs when cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up in the brain’s ventricles, and puts pressure on the brain. This restricts blood flow and can cause damage to the brain tissue. Current treatments are highly invasive and are largely ineffective in…
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Abstract Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder affecting over 50 million people worldwide. Current methods for monitoring and diagnosing epilepsy are conducted through EEG data collection and manual analysis in a clinical setting. This method can be both stressful and costly for patients as well as time-consuming and inefficient for clinicians. Our team aims to…
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Abstract Existing market solutions for breast lesion localization primarily rely on invasive devices, which can cause considerable patient discomfort and raise safety concerns among healthcare providers. These invasive options often require multiple clinic visits and involve procedures that are inconvenient and, sometimes, distressing for patients. Our solution proposes a non-invasive device that uses a controlled…
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Abstract This Capstone project focuses on a soft robotic elbow brace designed to treat spasticity in patients in stroke rehabilitation therapy. It delivers real-time muscle data to occupational therapists while straightening the forearm and hand muscles. Spasticity, characterized by muscle stiffness and involuntary contractions, presents a major barrier to recovery for stroke patients, affecting both…
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Abstract Precision Phantoms addresses the gap in medical device calibration and validation for processing as well as in preclinical trials by creating biomimetic phantoms using composite solid gels as the foundational material that simulate the electrical, thermal and anatomical properties of human tissues. These phantoms aid accurate testing and calibration of energy-based medical devices for…
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Abstract The flexible MRI coil blanket is a novel imaging device designed to enhance the comfort and diagnostic precision of breast imaging. Traditional MRI systems rely on rigid coils that can be uncomfortable and poorly suited for certain anatomies, leading to suboptimal imaging quality and patient dissatisfaction. Our concept addresses this gap by creating a…
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Abstract The BioSpringTM offers a millimeter-scale, biocompatible spring with high compressibility and load-bearing capacity, enhancing the linear range of motion and providing consistent passive force to promote bone growth in the context of numerous orthopedic implants. This unique double-walled polymeric design, combining a shape-stabilizing outer mesh with an elastic inner material, enables structural elasticity in…
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Abstract We are creating a reusable pressurized wound irrigation device to enhance wound-cleaning procedures in emergency rooms. Infections are a common complication in emergency rooms that can lead to further complications, ultimately leading to elongated treatment, extended hospital stays, and higher patient costs. Irrigation tools used in emergency rooms today consist of syringes or bottles…
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Abstract Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is the buildup of plaque in a patient’s peripheral arteries, most common in the legs and feet. PAD currently affects about 10 million Americans and is an underserved disease as there is no outstanding treatment. Early detection is the best treatment for PAD as it enables patients to make healthy…
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Abstract The quantification of surgical skills is critically important not only for assessing the effectiveness of surgical training, but also for individualized optimization of performance of skilled surgeons. Motion tracking of hand movements in simulated surgery scenarios is emerging as a promising tool to extract motion features to quantify surgical skill. As traditional motion tracking…
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Abstract The engineering team at AVACETM Biomedics has developed a medical device concept that would assist in verifying bone segment placement and realignment—intraoperatively—during a bone deformity correction. The concept is centered around a circular bubble or spirit level designed to attach and detach to the orthopedic surgical pins that are typically placed on the bone…
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Abstract Semaglutide-based pharmaceuticals have gained increasing interest in the clinical treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) due to their effectiveness in glycemic control. Acting as a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA), semaglutide enhances insulin secretion and promotes beta-cell survival. GLP-1RA therapeutics offer a promising alternative to insulin and existing treatments for the estimated 38…
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Abstract Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) affects 2-4% of children aged 10-18 globally, with untreated moderate to severe cases potentially leading to significant health complications. Bracing is a non-invasive method to prevent curve progression, but patient compliance remains low, often averaging just 33-77% of the recommended wear time. Discomfort, movement restrictions, appearance concerns, and psychosocial factors…
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Abstract Many rural hospitals lack the infrastructure to support large stocks of pre-warmed intravenous (IV) fluids for invasive medical procedures, and as a result require an alternative solution to produce the needed stock in a short amount of time. ThermaMed Industries is committed to creating a solution for the rapid heating of IV fluid to…
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Abstract The PulmonUs team is designing a refillable multi use dry powder inhaler that is biodegradable and also easier to use for patients across all ages. The current aerosol inhalers that are available on the market utilize hydrofluoroalkanes (HFAs) to deliver asthma medication to patients. Recent emerging studies have shown that the HFAs in a…
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Abstract The accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning for orthopedic conditions rely heavily on the precise visualization of bone structures from medical imaging data. Current imaging modalities, such as CT and MRI scans, provide detailed cross-sectional images but require extensive manual interpretation. Our project, 3D Bone Reconstruction and Segmentation project addresses this gap by developing…
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Abstract The ExecuWear Biometric Sleeve is a wearable device designed to address the health challenges of high-performing professionals and executives who spend extended periods in sedentary, high-stress environments, increasing their risk of cardiovascular complications. This device focuses on continuous monitoring of biometric data, including blood pressure, heart rate, and sedentary time, to provide real-time health…
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Abstract Idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS) is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by abnormal wound healing around the subglottis and tracheal region. Excessive fibrosis causes ECM deposition in the area, leading to tissue stiffness and narrowing of the passage. There is no permanent solution and current treatment solutions are surgically removing the scar tissue with topical…
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Abstract Description of Concept: This project aims to develop a smartphone attachment device capable of capturing high-quality ophthalmic images for analysis of the posterior and anterior eye segments. Clinical Need/Market: A 2023 WHO report finds that despite nearly 2.2 billion people worldwide having vision impairment—half of which cases were preventable—a large percentage of patients lack…
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Abstract Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is the leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide, affecting approximately 1 in 5 women following childbirth. Primary postpartum hemorrhage is typically defined as a blood loss of 500 mL or more within the first 24 hours after vaginal delivery and a blood loss of 1000 ml or more within the first…
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Abstract Currently, there are no current devices that induce a growth plate fracture or arrest with precision and accuracy. This causes a stall in the orthopedic research space and is a large gap in the medical technology market. Our concept design is a precision medical device designed for safe and effective bone fracture management, with…
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Abstract PharmAccount is developing an innovative module that integrates continuous medication counting into the BD PyxisTM MedStation to address inefficiencies and vulnerabilities in hospital medication management. Hospitals globally face challenges in preventing drug diversion, maintaining accurate medication inventory, and reducing administrative burdens on nursing staff. The current reliance on manual blind counts for controlled substances…
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Abstract 80% of U.S. women experience imbalance of their reproductive hormones often causing conditions such as endometriosis, PCOS, PID, chronic yeast infections and chronic bacterial vaginosis. 1 in 6 women globally also experience infertility and 1.3 million women in the U.S. are experiencing menopause annually. The aim of BioBalance is to advance female reproductive healthcare…
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Abstract As of 2024, breast cancer is the most predominant form of cancer in the United States, with 313,510 new cases and 42,250 deaths in that year alone. Current treatment methods involve a 3-step surgical process for the (1) biopsy and placement of a primary localization marker, (2) placement of the secondary localization marker which…