Uroflowmetry
(2019-2020)
Uroflowmetry is a test conducted in order to measure the volume of urine excreted and total urination time, which are used in conjunction to determine the flow rate of the urine. That flow rate data is then used by clinicians, such as urologists, to diagnose for various urinary issues. Those problems include, but are not limited to: bladder obstruction, enlarged prostate, bladder incontinence, and urethral/meatal stenosis. For clinicians to determine what type of urinary issue it is, they consider the max urine flow rate and the shape of the urine flow rate graph. For example, a patient with a low max urine flow rate and oddly shaped urine flow rate curve, the clinician might diagnose a patient as having abnormal voiding. Then the clinician will call for more tests, to determine what type of urinary issue the patient may possess.
Where current uroflowmetry devices lack, is the cost, with most ranging from 400-4000 $ USD. We have researched various technologies in order to create a uroflowmetry device at a better price point. The technology that will allow for more competitive pricing while not sacrificing accuracy, is triboelectric devices. Triboelectric devices take advantage of the triboelectric effect, in which materials become electrically charged when in contact with each other. So, we plan on using triboelectric materials to create a triboelectric sensor that will perform uroflowmetry.
To achieve our development goals, we have: interviewed several researchers with relevant fields and experiences, created a 3-D model of our prototype design, and compiled the needed materials for the prototype. In spring 2020, we plan on creating our prototype and interview more patients with urinary issues, in order to maximize patient compliance with our design.
Where current uroflowmetry devices lack, is the cost, with most ranging from 400-4000 $ USD. We have researched various technologies in order to create a uroflowmetry device at a better price point. The technology that will allow for more competitive pricing while not sacrificing accuracy, is triboelectric devices. Triboelectric devices take advantage of the triboelectric effect, in which materials become electrically charged when in contact with each other. So, we plan on using triboelectric materials to create a triboelectric sensor that will perform uroflowmetry.
To achieve our development goals, we have: interviewed several researchers with relevant fields and experiences, created a 3-D model of our prototype design, and compiled the needed materials for the prototype. In spring 2020, we plan on creating our prototype and interview more patients with urinary issues, in order to maximize patient compliance with our design.
Team Member Bios:
Agustin Sanchez is a senior studying Biomedical Engineering with a mechanical emphasis. He is currently enrolled in the progressive degree program, planning to get a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Michael Peterson is a senior studying Biomedical Engineering. Lately he has worked in Dr. Bir’s Ballistics and Sports Injury Lab. He is also a pre-med student, with an intent of pursuing a MD after graduation
Peter Cordi is a senior studying Biomedical Engineering with a mechanical emphasis. Pete works in the Biomechanics Lab under Dr. Jill McNitt-Gray. He served 5 years in the United States Air Force as an aircraft Loadmaster on C-130s. Pete is considering pursuing a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Tony Park is a senior studying Biomedical Engineering. Tony recently joined the Medical and Analytical Devices Lab under Dr. Maral Mousavi. He plans on getting a master’s degree in Product Development Engineering.
Jay Yoo is a junior studying Biomedical Engineering. He is planning on either entering industry or PhD after graduation.
Edwin is a Master student studying Biomedical Engineering with a mechanical emphasis. He is planning on entering industry after graduation.
Michael Peterson is a senior studying Biomedical Engineering. Lately he has worked in Dr. Bir’s Ballistics and Sports Injury Lab. He is also a pre-med student, with an intent of pursuing a MD after graduation
Peter Cordi is a senior studying Biomedical Engineering with a mechanical emphasis. Pete works in the Biomechanics Lab under Dr. Jill McNitt-Gray. He served 5 years in the United States Air Force as an aircraft Loadmaster on C-130s. Pete is considering pursuing a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Tony Park is a senior studying Biomedical Engineering. Tony recently joined the Medical and Analytical Devices Lab under Dr. Maral Mousavi. He plans on getting a master’s degree in Product Development Engineering.
Jay Yoo is a junior studying Biomedical Engineering. He is planning on either entering industry or PhD after graduation.
Edwin is a Master student studying Biomedical Engineering with a mechanical emphasis. He is planning on entering industry after graduation.