Design Award

• Tong Biomedical Design Award Winner

News About this Project

• Publication: Silder, A., Westphal, C. J., and Thelen, D. G. (September 3, 2009). "A Magnetic Resonance-Compatible Loading Device for Dynamically Imaging Shortening and Lengthening Muscle Contraction Mechanics." ASME. J. Med. Devices. September 2009; 3(3): 034504. (September 2009)

Project Overview

MR imaging can provide clinicians and researchers valuable insights into the morphology of musculoskeletal structures. However, most current imaging techniques in use are static and don’t provide direct measurements of biomechanical function. Recent breakthroughs in magnet strength, acquisition speed and processing of MR data have enabled imaging to be used to measure in-vivo muscle motion and joint kinematics during movement under load. These applications require the use of a non-magnetic device for loading or guiding the limb through a desired, repeatable movement. The goal of this design project is to develop and build such a device for use in the Radiology clinic of the UW hospitals. Our initial intended applications are to use Cine-PC (Phase contrast) imaging to measure in-vivo musculotendon motion of the hamstrings muscles during a stretch-shortening cycle. Cine-PC requires multiple cycles of motion, necessitating that the device guide the limb through a repeatable motion at relatively low loads.

Files

• Product Design Specifications - Spring 2007 (March 2, 2007)
• Mid-Semester Presentation (March 9, 2007)
• Final Poster Presentation (May 4, 2007)
• Technote for Submission to a Biomechanics Journal (May 9, 2007)

Contact Information

Team Members

• Eric Bader - Team Leader
• Arinne Lyman - Communicator
• Christopher Westphal - BSAC
• Sarajane Stevens - BWIG

Advisor and Client

• Prof. William Murphy - Advisor
• Prof. Darryl Thelen - Client