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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.

AssessmentWeight
Problem-based learning: presentations and reports, including the grant proposal50%
Final exam50%
  • 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​

No write-ups yet.

Questions by Year​

No past papers for this module are listed on TCD’s past-papers pages. See How it's assessed above.

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)
  1. Describe the concepts behind implanted devices and systems
  2. Engage with clinicians and people living with active implants
  3. Describe and evaluate outcome measures for chronic implants
  4. Identify and adapt engineering solutions to unmet biological needs
  5. Propose research ideas for new or improved active implants

Summarised from the module descriptor, checked November 2026.