Biomedical Engineering (BME)

Examination of the structure, fundamental properties and functional behavior of materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics and composites used in medical devices and in biological systems, emphasizing mechanical, corrosion, and surface properties.

Examination of the interactions between the human body and implanted biomaterials focusing on the processes occurring at the tissue-biomaterial interface, including biocompatibility fundamentals with material used in medicine. Special emphasis will be placed in the interaction of biomaterials with cells and tissues including blood.

Fundamentals of fluid mechanics and their application to systems in biology and physiology. Topics covered include: properties and statics of fluids; conservation of mass, momentum and energy in fluid flow; flow in closed conduits; dimensional analysis; and flow measurements.

First course in a quantitative two semester sequence on human physiology for engineers. Includes overview of cells and tissues; energy and cellular metabolism; membrane dynamics; communication, integration, and homeostasis; the endocrine system, neurons and the nervous system; sensory physiology; muscles and control of body movement. Integrates modeling and simulation of physiological systems as well as computer-based experimentation.

Second course in a quantitative two semester sequence on human physiology for engineers. Includes the cardiovascular system; blood, blood flow, and control of blood pressure; mechanics of breathing; gas exchange and transport; the kidneys; fluids and electrolyte balance; digestion; energy balance and metabolism; endocrine control of growth and metabolism; the immune system; exercise physiology. Integrates modeling and simulation of physiological systems as well as computer-based experimentation.

Principles of Circuit design, simulation, and analysis; DC and AC circuit theory; principles of electronic devices and amplifiers for bioengineering applications.

Introduction to analysis of signals arising from both living and non-living systems. Basic processing of signals with emphasis on analog models and processes. Linear systems and an introduction to closed-loop control. Includes Laplace and Fourier transforms and use of computers for signal and system analysis and control within bioengineering applications.

This course begins with an overview of mechanics applied to bioengineering, including statics and dynamics of human movement. Students will draw upon skills learned in engineering mechanics and biomaterials. Applications of biomechanics will be discussed in gait analysis, orthopedics, and sports assessment. Instrumentation important to biomechanics will be covered to provide a general understanding of applications in research and industry.

This course focuses on molecular, cellular and tissue engineering, emphasizing concepts, techniques, and clinical applications. Understanding the molecular basis of cellular function and interactions, in combination with fundamental engineering principles, students gain insights into hard and soft tissue structure and function, with the purpose of developing bioartificial tissues or enhancing native materials at the cellular or tissue level.

Design and applications of biomedical instruments and devices. Includes biopotential electrodes and amplifiers, cardiovascular and respiratory measurements, clinical laboratory instruments, therapeutic and diagnostic devices, medical imaging systems, and electrical safety.

Fundamental concepts in bioelectricity. Includes both theory and application of knowledge in engineering and electrophysiology to design and use of medical and laboratory devices and diagnostic systems.

Theory and applications of data acquisition and control for biomedical instruments, devices, and experimentation. Includes analog and digital interfacing, data conversion, use of timers and other electronic devices as well as pertinent software tools.

The quantitative description of momentum, heat and mass (convection and diffusion) transport in living systems. Application of engineering methods to model and quantify transport aspects of biological and medical systems.

In this class, students use the Engineering Design Method and Operations Management Concepts to solve problems pertinent to health care industries, E.G. Hospitals, clinics, and research labs, as well as problems related to design development in industry. Specific topics include methods of problem solving, data gathering, statistical methods of data analysis, and developing solutions.

Introduction to the engineering design process as applied to bioengineered products. Focus on technical, regulatory, legal, ethical, economic, and social aspects of medical device, biologic and combination product designs, development and commercialization. Includes existing product benchmarking and provides and introduction to modern engineering software tools for biomedical product design.

First course in a two semester capstone design sequence for bioengineers. Includes capstone project problem definition, competitive benchmarking, design metrics and specifications, realistic constraints including ethical, regulatory, intellectual property and standards. Also generation of potential project solution strategies and concept selection.

Second course in a two semester capstone design sequence for bioengineers. Includes capstone project design and assembly drawings, engineering analysis, prototyping, testing, and documentation. Also realistic constraints including health and safety, human factors, economics, sustainability, and manufacturing.

This course covers topics in bioengineering with an emphasis on recent developments. Topics and credit may vary.