MEC4601 · Implantable devices

This unit is an introduction to biomedical engineering from the perspective of implantable medical devices. Topics include human physiology for engineers, principles of implantable medical devices, implantable cardiac devices, modelling of fluid flow, implantable sensors, application of control systems, biomedically relevant properties and phenomena, medical device development strategies, and medical device regulatory approval processes. During this time, project teams are formed and project proposals are developed to address a clinical problem. Project work continues with groups progressing through a strategy to develop an implantable medical device and associated commercialisation strategy.

The Handbook publishes no offerings for this unit.

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

1. Stage 1: Proposal

   ProjectThreshold

   15%

2. Stage 2: Progress report

   ProjectThreshold

   20%

3. Stage 3: Pitch solution

   Project

   15%

4. Stage 4: Final report

   ProjectThreshold

   20%

5. Final assessment

   ExaminationThreshold

   30%

Continuous assessment: 70% Final assessment: 30% This unit contains threshold hurdle requirement that you must achieve to be able to pass the unit. You are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final assessment component. The consequence of not achieving a hurdle requirement is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

1. Analyse human physiology from the perspective of engineering to develop insights into implantable medical devices.
2. Draw on the underlying principles of operation of various implantable devices in a medical and scientific research context to design creative solutions for the next generation of medical devices.
3. Analyse the practical implementations and technical characteristics of various implantable medical devices to meet the requirements of human physiology.
4. Design and justify implementations of innovative medical technology, considering the technical, legal, health, safety, user and commercial requirements and limitations.
5. Engage a team to generate clear, concise and high-quality documentation and reports for oral and written communications of complex integrated ideas.

Problem-based learning - The assignment in this unit will task you with developing solutions for a medical problem of your own choosing. Working in a group of your peers, you will design and create a medical implant or device to address the problem. Active learning - During workshop sessions, you will be prompted to participate in polls, sharing your answers and opinions on topics discussed in class. Research activities - You will engage in a research project applying concepts of research methods to review a specific medical problem. Your task is to generate a hypothesis and provide supporting evidence that the proposed solution will work. A written report is due at the end of the semester. Simulation or virtual practice - Each group of students will participate in a group as a member of a medical company that is trying to develop a medical product to address a specific medical problem. Solutions will be assessed at the end of the semester, based on an oral pitch and a written report.

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Credit points

6

Level

Level 4

Faculty

Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

School

Faculty of Engineering

Study abroad

Not stated

Handbook version

2026.01

Handbook years

20252026

These are students' own experiences, not official rules. Go by the Handbook.