The History and Impacts of Biomedical Engineering

Engineering Studies – P4 Biomedical Engineering – The Engineering Profession

This topic covers the historical development of biomedical engineered devices. The key concepts are the advances in technology and the effect engineering has on people’s lives. Examples of Australian innovation and achievement are highlighted.

Key Concepts

History

• Material changes in biomedical applications
• Manufacturing changes in biomedical applications
• Technology advances in biomedical applications

Impacts

• Impacts that technology advancement can have on people’s lives  achieved through biomedical engineering.
• Innovation in biomedical engineering.

Discussion Questions

History

1. Discuss changes in materials used in biomedical products over the past 30 years.
2. Discuss changes in manufacturing methods used for biomedical products over the past 30 years.
3. Describe examples of technology advances in biomedical applications in the past 30 years.

Impacts

1. 1. List significant impacts on people’s lives achieved in Australia by biomedical engineering in areas such as:
      • Personal assistance
      • Public assistance
   2. Discuss the effect that biomedical engineering has had on:
      • Safety
      • The environment