About Us
The Engineering Core provides investigators with a resource for mechanical and biomedical engineering expertise, design of prototypes and test fixtures, and advanced 3D modeling. We specialize in early stage medical device development for proof-of-concept purposes, design and fabrication of customized test fixtures, and CT/MRI-based anatomy models.
Contacts
Services
The Engineering Core is pleased to offer the services below, whether separately or as part of a larger project:
Brainstorming
We’re here to help investigators tackle clinical and research challenges. We can be consulted informally as or part of a part of a structured innovation session. For Cleveland Clinic inventors, we can assist with the Invention Disclosure process, when appropriate.
Mechanical Design
With over 100 years of combined engineering experience, from a variety of disciplines, we can help bring a concept to reality using well-established design principles or something entirely new. Or both!
3D Solid Modeling
We use SOLIDWORKS CAD software to create 3D solid models of our designs. This approach helps us to more quickly identify design flaws, make design improvements, collaborate with the investigator, and visualize how the design will interface with existing hardware or anatomy.
Technical Drawings & Documentation
We can provide 2D technical drawings using SOLIDWORKS software. We generate technical drawings using GD&T best practices, both for machining and documentation purposes. We can also author technical reports and specifications as part of the product development process. We are also happy to contribute to peer-reviewed journal article manuscripts, when appropriate.
Anatomy Reconstruction
Also known as “segmentation”, we use the Mimics Innovation Suite software to import CT or MRI imaging, select the desired anatomical structures, and convert our selections to a 3D mesh model. These models can be 3D Printed, viewed in Virtual or Augmented reality, or imported to Solidworks to enhance our mechanical design projects.
3D Printing
Also known as “Additive Manufacturing”, we operate six 3D Printers. In combination with 3D Solid Modeling, these allow us to quickly deliver early-stage prototype models, support productive brainstorming sessions and iterate design concepts faster. These technologies are also used to build our patient-specific anatomy models. Please visit the 3D Printing page for more information.
Laser Cutting
We operate two laser cutting machines:
One is an “athermal”, femto-second model which allows us to precisely cut very small device prototypes from a variety of materials, including biomedical-use alloys such as Nitinol and 316L Stainless Steel. The system can be configured to cut designs out of flat sheet and tubing. For more information, please see the Nitinol Core page.
The other machine is a 100W CO2 laser cutter, useful for rapidly cutting a wide range of polymers up to 19mm thick (thicker in some cases).