Design

  • An Ultra-Low Power Inchworm Actuator for In Vivo Applications
    A novel electrostatic inchworm micro-actuator with integrated microprobe is described. Using the principle of hydrophobia, the device is made waterproof, which makes it suitable for a range of in vivo applications, including for accurate position control of micro needles in brain applications.
    (March, 2010)
  • Testing Transcatheter Heart Valve Devices
    Implementing and conducting a robust and efficient in vitro test validation protocol for transcatheter heart valve devices is complex. This article proposes a method to reduce cost and to optimise the development cycle of these products.
    (March, 2010)
  • Computational Simulation in Biomechanics: Theory and Applications
    A powerful tool is described that can provide rapid design scenarios, accuracy and realistic images that also contain considerable quantifiable data for device evaluation before manufacture. Application examples include the use of the technique for dental implants and facial reconstruction.
    (March, 2010)
  • Reducing Time from Diagnosis to Treatment
    A series of interviews from EMDT that offers personal perspectives on the diverse and dymanic medical device industry. Here we talk to Arindam Mukherjee.
    (February, 2010)
  • The Alternatives for Medical Device Insulation Testing
    This article describes the tests used to assess the integrity of insulation in electrical appliances. Each test method has its relative merits and place in periodic testing, providing the different limitations of each are understood.
    (February, 2010)
  • Monitoring Movement Using Motion Sensors
    The results of clinical trials of a gait measuring system are reported here that is designed for use in the outpatient clinic or the home. Its capabilities and range of potential applications are described.
    (February, 2010)
  • Manoeuvring In Vivo Devices with External Magnetic Fields
    When put closely together, the forces between magnetic objects can be enormous. However, using magnets to manoeuvre objects over larger distances is not easy. This article describes research developments in a European project1 that aims to manoeuvre and orient a camera capsule in the stomach and oes...
    (January, 2010)
  • Peelable Materials for Flexible Packaging
    In response to the need for higher manufacturing output, packaging consistency and increased validation scrutiny, packaging material suppliers have introduced new packaging formulations. This article examines the benefits of using peelable materials for the fabrication of flexible packaging for medi...
    (January, 2010)
  • Smooth Operators: Technology to Improve Hospital Performance
    Replacing difficult to clean surfaces with flat, touch-sensitive screens could be the way forward in the fight against nosocomial infections. In addition incorporating printed light guide technology in hospital equipment allows ease of use and reduces the risk of human error.
    (January, 2010)
  • Isolating USB Connections in Medical Equipment
    Although offering several benefits, the universal serial bus (USB) port has not been rapidly adopted for connecting medical equipment. This is because it could affect safety procedures, with equipment not operating isolated from the mains. To overcome this, a single package isolation device has b...
    (November, 2009)
  • Needles: A Comparison Study
    More than 50 million injections of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic, disabling neurological condition, are performed annually. In other therapy areas such as diabetes where the injection burden is far greater, immense strides have been made to improve patient...
    (November, 2009)
  • A Higher Power
    Small and Efficient Nuclear Battery Uses Liquid Semiconductor
    (November, 2009)
  • New literature, cd-roms, videos and podcasts
    Motion control components   A general catalogue in two cross-referenced volumes presents the entire line of motion control components available from a specialist supplier. Available in English and German versions, the catalogue provides full information about linear guides, linear actuators...
    (November, 2009)
  • Closed-Loop Micropumps
    The small size, low power consumption and attractive price of micropumps make them ideal for use in medical delivery systems. This article discusses two designs of closed-loop controlled micropumps that can be employed to meet differing levels of accuracy and portability.
    (November, 2009)
  • Stroke Diagnosis with Lab-on-a-Chip
    A magnetic-based sensing platform with increased sensitivity has been developed for integration into lab-on-a-chip systems. The methodology consists of moving the magnetic particles to the most sensitive spot of the sensor. To demonstrate its effectiveness, the protein S100ββ, a diagnostic...
    (September, 2009)
  • Implantable Devices: Challenges and Opportunities
    Breakthroughs in technology are progressing at a phenomenal pace, but bringing them to the patient in the form of a device remains a challenge. The technical issues involved in designing an implantable device are outlined together with some potential solutions.
    (September, 2009)
  • A Healthy Debate?
    A note from the editor
    (September, 2009)
  • Designing for the Future
    The lifecycles of many medical devices are extremely complex, as is their design process, which requires a great investment in time and expert procedures at all stages. This article highlights the critical issues to consider when embarking on a design project and how to reduce the risks involved in ...
    (May, 2009)
  • Design and Engineering Achievements
    The winners of the 2009 Medical Design Excellence Awards have been announced. Judged by a panel of impartial, multidisciplinary third-party jurors, 32 winners have been selected in 10 product categories. Some of them are described here. For details of all the winners, go to www.devicelink.com/expo/a...
    (May, 2009)
  • Software Development Resolving the Conflict Between Speed and Compliance
    The use of modern software tools and processes can make a significant contribution to developing reliable software for medical devices. These techniques can help bring products to market more rapidly and cost-effectively because the production of compliance documentation is automated and ensures tha...
    (May, 2009)
  • The Future is Mobile and Wireless
    Demand for mobile and wireless diagnostic and therapy devices is increasing and microsystems technology is helping to meet that demand.
    (May, 2009)
  • Standardising Analogue Front End Design for Ultrasound Imaging Systems
    The standardisation of analogue front end products is allowing the development of portable ultrasound devices that provide enhanced image quality while minimising power consumption. The design opportunities associated with the use of these products are described.
    (May, 2009)
  • Implications of Material Selection on the Design of Packaging Machinery
    Material selection has significant implications on the design and cost of horizontal-form-fill-seal packaging machinery. To avoid excessive costs, machine redesigns and project delays, material selection must be reconciled early in the project and revisited throughout the construction of the machine...
    (March, 2009)
  • Assuring Regulatory Compliance without Compromising Innovation
    A new product development system automates routine processes and helps to avoid “deliverable document syndrome”
    (March, 2009)
  • Functionalising Surfaces at the Nanoscale Using Plasma Technology
    Plasma technology offers a highly effective toolbox for nanoscale surface engineering of materials. The potential variety of nanoscale features and new properties that can be achieved are reviewed here.
    (January, 2009)