Carpal Tunnel Diagnostic Tool

CAD Medical Device Prototyping

A spring-based diagnostic tool for medical researchers, developed in CAD and refined with physicians for clinical application.

Overview

The Carpal Tunnel Diagnostic Tool is a novel medical device designed to assist physicians and researchers in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome through objective, quantifiable measurements. This project bridges the gap between engineering precision and clinical utility.

Technical Details

  • Design Platform: SolidWorks CAD for 3D modeling and mechanical design
  • Mechanism: Spring-based force measurement system for consistent, repeatable diagnostics
  • Materials: Medical-grade plastics and stainless steel components
  • Calibration: Precision-calibrated to detect subtle variations in wrist biomechanics

Development Process

The development began in January 2024 as a collaboration between engineering students and medical professionals at TCU. The iterative design process involved:

  1. Initial Prototyping: Rapid prototyping using 3D printing to validate mechanical concepts
  2. Clinical Feedback: Regular consultations with physicians and medical students to refine ergonomics and usability
  3. Testing & Validation: Bench testing followed by preliminary clinical trials

Current Status

The project is actively being refined for potential use in clinical applications. The goal is to provide medical researchers with a reliable, affordable tool that can be manufactured at scale.

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