Date of Award

6-2021

Document Type

Thesis - SCU Access Only

Publisher

Santa Clara : Santa Clara University, 2021.

Department

Bioengineering

Abstract

Encellin is developing an implantable cell encapsulation device to treat Type 1 Diabetes. With a primary focus on the development of the cell encapsulation device (CED) Encellin sponsored this thesis to create a standardized mode of implantation for the CED. The objective is to to design a low-cost, effective, and minimally invasive surgical implant delivery system for implantation of the CED. Being that Encellin’s product is a novel technology, there are few competitive devices found on the market. With that in mind, the team designed three unique delivery system models to be rapidly prototyped, guaranteeing that an efficient product development timeline was maintained. In this paper, the design process that led to the development and testing of numerous 3D printed models is discussed. Once a standardized testing protocol was developed, testing was conducted on each prototype. For future considerations, the finalized prototype dimensions can be slimmed down to meet a more minimally invasive requirement. Additionally, further development can be made on the mechanical components of the system to assure better functionality. This can be done by optimizing the way parts fit together to ensure that they move more efficiently. Given more time and better access to 3D printing technology or injection molding, the final prototype can be made to better prioritize its minimally invasive aspect by allowing for smaller dimensions all around.

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