Sean Healy
BME PhD Proposal Presentation

Date: 2026-10-28
Time: 10:00 am
Location / Meeting Link: MoSE 3201A

Committee Members:
Rafael Davalos, PhD; Matthew Flavin, PhD; Gary W. Liu, PhD; David R. Myers, PhD


Title: Severable Ingestible Electronics for Facilitated GI Transit and Sensor-Guided Therapeutics

Abstract:
Ingestible electronics enable the unique tracking and treatment of gastrointestinal and systemic diseases. However, bulky batteries, circuit boards, and drug payloads require large capsule sizes that can result in bowel obstruction, a medical emergency. In this thesis, we engineer electronic pill capable of triggered severing into tiny 9 x 15 mm pieces with sizes clinically proven to reduce obstruction risk. Our capsules enable multicomponent circuit boards to connect with separately encapsulated powering elements via conductive, interlocking connections. Heat induced softening of polyethylene glycol/polycaprolactone channels activates a spring to separate encapsulated components into inert 9 x 15 mm segments, facilitating intestinal passage. Separation triggers included manual activation via Bluetooth low energy, closed-loop sensors and time-delay circuits. In vivo swine studies demonstrate the ability of our capsules to sense luminal oxygen changes via an optoelectronic sensor, release therapeutic payloads on command, and facilitate safe excretion.