= Biomedical engineering
{wiki}
\b[Biomedical engineering] applies engineering analysis, measurement and design to problems in <biology>, <medicine> and health care. It includes instruments for <medical imaging>, devices that interact mechanically with the body, <biomaterials> and <tissue engineering>. The National Library of Medicine's scope connects experimental and analytical engineering methods with devices, materials, processes and systems for biology and medicine.<Bioengineering in the National Library of Medicine Collection Development Guidelines>[Definition and Discussion]{ref}
A useful research example combines <tensile testing> with <Raman spectroscopy>. A mechanical tester mounted on a Raman microprobe stage held hydrated bone specimens while their mineral spectra were measured during elastic loading. The apparatus connected macroscopic deformation to a molecular-scale observation.<Bone tissue ultrastructural response to elastic deformation probed by Raman spectroscopy by Michael D. Morris and others>[Abstract, coupled tester and Raman microprobe experiment]{ref} Neither measurement alone describes every property of the biological system.
For an original device-mechanics example, model a uniform elastic test strip of length $L$, area $A$ and <Young's modulus> $E$. Under axial force $F$, the small-extension model gives
$$
\Delta L=\frac{FL}{AE}.
$$
With $F=10\,\mathrm N$, $L=20\,\mathrm{mm}$, $A=2\,\mathrm{mm^2}$ and $E=1\,\mathrm{GPa}$, the predicted extension is $0.10\,\mathrm{mm}$. Doubling area halves that extension without changing material stiffness. These stipulated values illustrate a design calculation, not a device recommended for use in a patient.
The model must be tested against relevant biological conditions. Hydration, loading rate, tissue interfaces and <biocompatibility> can matter alongside stiffness. Bench measurements establish behavior under their test conditions; evidence that a device achieves a clinical benefit requires a separate assessment. A <biomedical engineer> connects the physical model, the measurement and the intended biological function.
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