Projects

Adaptive Handcycle Project

This month, our biomech team has been altering and finalizing a few aspects of the project design. They have been working on redesigning clamps on the handcycle because the original design did not fit as well as implementing the linear actuator.

Additionally, finalization of the wheels, the materials to be used for the system and the dimensions of the frame have been in the works with simulations of the frame currently in progress and testing scheduled to begin once the materials have arrived.

BIOMOD

It has been a busy month for our BIOMOD team and their DNADetect project. Their most recent work has culminated in the completion of several key experiments and the synthesis of essential components which has brought them significantly closer to their goals of designing a biosensor for the early detection of neurodegenerative diseases.

Some of the most significant highlights of the team’s progress are as follows:

· Completed the first round of nanopore folding — nanopores act as a channel for outputting a signal when a target is detected.

· Tested various strand displacement methods — strand displacement is key for the modularity of the design, allowing the team to adapt the biosensor for different targets by changing attachments.

· Explored the activity of the aptazyme — aptazymes are engineered molecules that combine the binding capabilities of aptamers with the catalytic functions of enzymes. In the biosensor, they help to detect a target and cause a cleavage event, allowing for visible output.

· Created large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs) encapsulated with fluorescent dyes — LUVs are used as carriers for the visible indicator dye in our biosensor. Encapsulating dyes within LUVs allows for the controlled release and detection of fluorescent signals, which is essential for the accurate measurement of biomarker concentrations.

Biofeedback Stepping and Walking Aid

July has been a successful month in the progression of this project. Our software team was able to test out the walking aid with two patients at Foothills Medical Centre and receive valuable feedback on the design. The patients reviewed the design positively and made some requests for improvements which included creating a case to hold and protect the IR sensor. The team also used Hall effect sensors to help calculate the speed and distance values for patients as they used the walker.

Recruitment

BMERIT Is Growing!

We have started the summer recruitment cycle and are excited for our team to continue growing as new members are recruited into the software, electrical, research & ethics and business teams.

Upcoming Events

Biodesign Synergy Planning

The Communications, Events, and External teams at BMERIT are partnering with McGill University to present the second edition of Biodesign Synergy!

This national event will unite students, faculty, and industry professionals to showcase innovative projects in the field. Save the date and join us on August 26-27th for this exciting event!

New Merchandise

Show your support!

Last day to sign up is August 1st!

BMERIT merch is here! With colors in black, beige, and navy blue, sign up here by Thursday August 1st to show off your BMERIT pride!

Click here to update email preferences or unsubscribe

© 2024 BMERIT