Diseño y prototipado de un dispositivo de sujeción mecánica para arterias

Abstract

This research focuses on the design and development of a mechanical gripping device for biomechanical characterization tests applied to arteries. The project emerged from the difficulties observed during experimental testing of soft tissues, where conventional fixation systems exhibited problems related to misalignment, slippage, and non-uniform pressure distribution. These limitations directly affected the experimental stability and the repeatability of the results obtained during biomechanical testing. Therefore, the development of a fixation system capable of providing stable, adaptable, and reproducible clamping conditions was proposed, while minimizing mechanical alterations to the specimen. The project was developed through an iterative methodology based on the seven design steps proposed by David G. Ullman, which allowed the process of prototype generation, evaluation, and improvement to be systematically structured. Throughout the study, different geometric configurations were developed to improve mechanical stability, specimen alignment, and load distribution during testing. The prototypes were manufactured using additive manufacturing through 3D printing, enabling rapid geometric modifications and experimental evaluation of the system’s functional behavior. During preliminary testing, issues associated with dimensional tolerances, lateral displacements, and localized pressure concentrations were identified and progressively corrected through successive design iterations. Finally, the iterative development process resulted in a functional device capable of improving fixation conditions during biomechanical testing performed on arteries, providing greater experimental stability and enhancing the repeatability of the obtained results.