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Human Factors and Ergonomics in Biomedical Device Design


Course Description

Introduction of the application of human factors and ergonomics in the design of biomedical devices, as well as the regulatory framework for device pre-market approval.

Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Graduate students will be required to develop and present to the rest of the class advanced case studies of biomedical device failures, predominantly due to inattention to human factors and/or ergonomics. The case study report and presentation will be graded for graduate credit.


Athena Title

Biomedical Device Design


Equivalent Courses

Not open to students with credit in BIOE 4720 or BIOE 6720


Non-Traditional Format

This course will be taught 95% or more online.


Prerequisite

BCHE 3520


Semester Course Offered

Offered every year.


Grading System

A - F (Traditional)


Course Objectives

Students will be exposed to a broad range of current topics in human factors, ergonomics, and biomedical device regulation in the U.S. and other countries. Upon completion of this course, students will be prepared to apply human factors and ergonomics knowledge in the healthcare industry, especially toward biomedical device design, or continue to higher levels of study in the field. For graduate credit, students will be required to develop and present advanced case studies of biomedical device failures to the rest of the class, predominantly due to inattention to human factors and/or ergonomics. The case study report and presentation will be graded for graduate credit.


Topical Outline

Topics will include: Federal food, drug, and cosmetic act; profiles of FDA biomedical device recalls; general principles of human abilities; environment of use; anthropometry and biomechanics; cross-national and cross-cultural design; documentation; testing and evaluation; controls; visual displays; connections and connectors; alarm design; workstations; signals, symbols, and markings; packing; device lifecycle; hand tool design; mobile medical devices; smart-phone-based devices; and home healthcare.