Biomedical Engineering

The Tyler Calibration System is an elegant tool for the rapid, precise fixation of Leksell frames onto patients undergoing gamma knife treatment or stereotactic neurosurgery. The device streamlines the process, minimizing discomfort for the patient and significantly reducing the time and staff required to attach the stereotactic frame.

Tissue culture assemblies and tools for the compartmented growth and manipulation of nerve cells in culture using Campenot methodologies.  This technique promotes the bidirectional extension of neurites from cell bodies along protein tracks into sealed chambers or compartments, in a process that mirrors the natural behavior of neural cells in the body. Such compartmentalized cells…

Extraction chamber for the purification of Islets of Langerhans from whole pancreatic tissue, and an array of infusion cells designed to assess biochemical activity of isolated islet cells in vitro, prior to cryopreservation and reflux implantation. These have been used in clinical trials to reverse insulin-dependent diabetes. This project also led to the development of temperature…

Past projects include an array of low-reflectance configurable retractors for pediatric and adult micro-neurosurgery, and a novel shunt system to redirect excess intracranial pressure and cerebrospinal fluid into the Calvarial diploë of the skull through the process of intraosseous infusion for the clinical treatment of hydrocephalics.  Another clinical project is an annular stapler designed for…

A high speed turbine under digital PID control generates both laminar and turbulent airflow throughout a 16 liter chamber to yield extremely fast ramp and equilibrium rates for nucleic acid hybridization assays. High precision platinum RTD thermal sensing ensures accurate ramp and maintenance temperatures. The ability to change and lock in temperatures rapidly permits hybridization…

Orthotic and Prosthetic joints (knees, elbows, wrists), couplings and actuators to replace amputated limbs. Machined completely from medical grade stainless steel, the joints feature axial needle bearing arrays for reliable performance under extreme conditions.

Multiple projects involving the re-engineering of wheelchairs and other mobility assisting devices to provide features not available commercially.