by Joel Harrison
10. November 2010 14:55

As the world is in need of more effective, functional and affordable technology solutions to clinical medical problems, the biomedical and bioengineering industry awards students who come up with new solutions in the area. The competition, sponsored by the National Collegiate Inventors and Innovators Alliance (NCIIA), is called BMEStart and its winners receive $10,000. This year, the prize went to students from North Carolina State University, who designed HydrEYE CorneOasis contact lenses.
The lenses, capable of hydrating the eye, are designed for patients with no control over their eyelid function, especially comatose patients after traumatic brain injury. In addition, patients with some facial nerve disorders (e.g. Bell's palsy) may also benefit from using the system.
All competition entries are evaluated on the basis of several criteria, including technical and economic feasibility, contribution to human health, innovation and commercialisation potential. The details of the next year’s competition are to be announced presently.