College - Author 1
College of Engineering
Department - Author 1
Biomedical Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Biomedical Engineering
College - Author 2
College of Engineering
Department - Author 2
Biomedical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 2
BS in Biomedical Engineering
Date
3-2026
Primary Advisor
Michael Whitt, College of Engineering, Biomedical Engineering Department
Abstract/Summary
The BabyCheck project was created to design and test a device that can collect a small blood sample from the fetal scalp during labor. The goal is to reduce uncertainty when fetal heart rate tracings are unclear, especially in Category II cases where it can be difficult for clinicians to decide the safest next step. Current monitoring methods either rely on interpreting heart rate patterns or use more invasive procedures to gather biochemical information. BabyCheck was designed to provide a simpler and more controlled way to collect a small blood sample that could help guide these decisions.
The final prototype includes a feeder tube with small silicone suction cups to hold it in place, a spring-loaded needle that controls how deep the puncture goes, and a capillary tube to collect the blood sample. Benchtop testing showed that the device met all major design goals, including safe penetration depth between 1.25 and 1.75 mm, low puncture force below 1 N, reliable blood collection above 5 µL, and stable suction between 5 and 10 N.
Although testing was performed only in a laboratory setting using silicone models, the results proved that the concept works as intended. Future steps include additional testing, improved manufacturing methods, and further clinical justification.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/bmedsp/220