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Here is the Project! -- ♫ survivin' - Bastille ♫

The scope of this project is to analyze, design, build, 3D-print (with anatomical printer), and test a "plug-and-play" model of blood vessels, such as aneurysms, using non-biologic materials. This system will model the vascular defect as well as allow for the testing of bioengineering devices to repair said defects. The system will support monitoring equipment and tubing attached to the inlets and outlets under static and dynamic loads. Image of Aneurysm

The requirments for this project are as follows:

Develop, justify, and characterize the following attributes (recommended but not limited to):

- Virtual design of vessel model using innovative biomaterials

o Biaxial vascular tension of materials

o Blood vessel compliance

o Lubricity of model interior

o Compressive and Shear Modulus

o Poisson's Ratio

o Radial Force

o Hardness

- Compatibility with an in vitro pressure (and flow) measurement system

Allow visualization of device deployment

Document repeatable manufacturing, order and laboratory implementation process

Aneurysms

A brain aneurysm is a bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain. It often looks like a berry hanging on a stem. A brain aneurysm can leak or rupture, causing bleeding into the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). Most often a ruptured brain aneurysm occurs in the space between the brain and the thin tissues covering the brain. This type of hemorrhagic stroke is called a subarachnoid hemorrhage. A ruptured aneurysm quickly becomes life-threatening and requires prompt medical treatment. Most brain aneurysms, however, don't rupture, create health problems or cause symptoms. Such aneurysms are often detected during tests for other condition.

A sudden, severe headache is the key symptom of a ruptured aneurysm. This headache is often described as the "worst headache" ever experienced.

Common signs and symptoms of a ruptured aneurysm include:

- Sudden, extremely severe headache

- Nausea and vomiting

- Stiff neck

- Blurred or double vision

- Sensitivity to light

- Seizure

- A drooping eyelid

- Loss of consciousness

- Confusion

3-D Printers

The world of 3D printing has evolved tremendously over the last few decades. 3D printing has its origin going back to the 1980's. Taking its roots in manufacturing, 3D printing was primarily used for prototyping products. In fact, large corporations continue to use rapid prototyping to save millions of dollars. However, 3D Printing is increasingly being used to create finished projects.

The ink jet printer, that many have in their homes today, puts a single layer of ink on top of the page in order to get the job done. A 3D printer, on the other hand, adds new layers on top of each layer before it, until the 3D object is completed.

Traditional manufacturing models require a lot of upfront costs, storage fees and uncertainty from investors. Machines have to be set up, space rented, and fingers crossed that the manufactured product sells. 3D printing takes a more fluid approach: one can print orders on-demand.