Active Implanted Medical Devices and Systems
Module code: MEP55BM9 · Semester: Semester 2
Resources
How it's assessed
Exam: 50% of the module. TCD doesn't list past papers for it.
The quantitative background to active implanted neural devices, neuromodulation and closed-loop control, built around a substantial individual grant-proposal assignment.
| Assessment | Weight |
|---|---|
| Problem-based learning: presentations and reports, including the grant proposal | 50% |
| Final exam | 50% |
- You may be returned as non-satisfactory if you attend less than 80% of lectures.
Summarised from the TCD module descriptor, checked 2026-11-09. Details can change from year to year, so check this year's descriptor and Blackboard.
From students who've done it
Questions by Year
Topics
- Action potentials: stimulation and recording LO1
- Principles of electrical stimulation and neuromodulation LO1
- Microelectrodes for neural interfaces LO1, LO4
- Engineering and regulatory considerations for active implants LO1, LO3
- Hearing, vestibular and vision implants LO3–4
- Brain-computer interfaces LO4–5
- Pain management, deep brain stimulation, vagus nerve stimulation LO3–4
- Clinical and patient perspectives LO2
Learning outcomes (exam covers LO1, LO3–4)
- Describe the concepts behind implanted devices and systems
- Engage with clinicians and people living with active implants
- Describe and evaluate outcome measures for chronic implants
- Identify and adapt engineering solutions to unmet biological needs
- Propose research ideas for new or improved active implants