Engineering
The “HandSOME II” is a cost-effective, lightweight, wearable, and assistive exoskeleton that restores hand function for stroke survivors. As a take-home device, patients can practice regularly and perform many functions that were previously not possible to complete. Partnered with the National Rehabilitation Hospital, clinical studies by Catholic University Biomedical Engineers have proven immediate and long-term improvements when patients use the device.
The faculty and staff in the School of Engineering’s Materials Science and Engineering Program saw the direction and impact of 3D printing when, in 2019, they introduced an Additive Manufacturing Professional Graduate Certificate for the express purpose of training students in all aspects of 3D printing so they will be equipped to provide expertise to commercial Industry and government leaders regarding the applicability, potential risks, and the opportunities of using 3D printed parts in critical systems.
The School of Engineering has a 3D printer lab for undergraduate students and another lab for those in the Biomedical Engineering Department. In the coming years, the latter anticipates many exciting developments to build upon their success with HandSome II. The most prominent one is the diversification in printer types, catering not only to varied material properties but also enabling the use of composite and FDA-approved materials. This advancement will enrich courses in health and engineering, allowing for the real-time prototyping of medical devices and intricate machine parts. Moreover, as 3D printing becomes an integral part of the Department's curriculum, it will greatly enhance their students' practical understanding and hands-on experience.
Beyond academics, there's an exciting prospect of the Department evolving into a nexus for 3D printing services, fostering invaluable partnerships with emerging startups and local businesses. Such collaborations not only promise a stream of revenue but also position CU at the forefront of technological innovation.
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