2024 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Project-based learning is an important tool in undergraduate engineering education, providing opportunities for students to deepen their understanding of engineering fundamentals, to enhance their capacity for problem solving and communication, and to develop specific engineering-related skills. Here, we describe the efforts of a team of undergraduate students in creating a silicone venous valve model and experimental flow control setup, and in demonstrating the basic capabilities of the overall experimental system. We describe the process of designing and building the venous valve models and test setup and lessons learned by the students through this experience. In addition to providing invaluable experience for the students involved, this project has provided a visual demonstration of the function of venous valves, and provides a platform for fundamental research on the effect of venous valve shape, size and mechanical properties on the development of disease such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), which are a leading cause of death in the United States, especially among hospital patients. Findings from research using this test setup can move us toward a better understanding of patient risk levels for DVT and PE, so that physicians can make informed decisions regarding preventative measures.