Team-oriented design project in biomedical engineering, incorporating engineering standards and realistic design constraints. Includes introduction to relevant regulatory, intellectual property, and business management topics.
Prerequisites: BMED 3610 and BMED 2310 (or BMED 2300) (you can apply to take BMED 3610 and BMED 4602 in the same semester if you are a graduating senior)
Credit Hours: 2
Average GPA: 3.38
This course begins by either bidding on a sponsored (industry, healthcare, or research) project, or proposing your own project. Both options require approval from the course instructors before moving forward. Once the project is confirmed, the rest of the semester is spent exploring that project and designing a solution. This involves conducting user interviews, determining user needs, concept creation, design and modeling, prototyping, testing, and following various engineering design specifications. Throughout the semester, you’ll give presentations and write several papers outlining your progress. You’ll work on a team of 3-6 students, and have a project advisor. At the end of the semester, all project teams attend the Georgia Tech Capstone Design Expo, and present their final device/solution that fulfills a unique need in the biomedical/healthcare industry.
THE tip: Find motivated teammates prior to the beginning of the class who have similar interests, but diverse skill sets and perspectives so that you can find a project you are all passionate about.
Recall: Everything! Technical instruction is minimal; classroom-based instruction is focused on the real-world, professional aspects of medical device development most students are unfamiliar with. Much of the class involves application and practice of pre-existing technical skills.
Spend your time… maintaining consistent communication with your team and project advisor to ensure you achieve your goals for the semester. Be efficient during group meetings. Plan to meet with your team at least 3-6 hours each week. Keep your lab notebook up to date and write down everything!
Take Home: This class gives a great idea of teamwork and the design iteration process.