Cal Day Ham
Vertical Pole Evolution - Stroke Behavioral Test
Project Type: Research Equipment Design & Fabrication
Institution: Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota Medical School
Timeline: 2021-2022
Technologies: SolidWorks, Custom Fabrication, Research Methodology
Overview
Designed and built multiple iterations of behavioral testing equipment for neurological deficit assessment in rats following ischemic stroke. This custom equipment enabled more accurate measurement of treatment effectiveness in stroke research at the Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota.
The Research Problem
When researching stroke treatments, scientists need reliable ways to measure neurological function in animal models. The vertical pole test is a validated method for assessing motor coordination and neurological deficit after stroke, but existing equipment often lacks the precision needed for nuanced measurements.
The vertical pole test challenges rats to descend a vertical pole head-first, requiring coordination, balance, and motor planning - abilities that are impaired by stroke. By measuring how rats perform this task, researchers can quantify the severity of stroke damage and the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions.
Design Evolution
Rather than accepting off-the-shelf solutions, I designed and built multiple iterations of the test apparatus, progressively improving functionality and measurement precision:
Iterative Design Process
- Analyzed requirements from research protocols and existing limitations
- Created CAD models in SolidWorks for each design iteration
- Fabricated prototypes using available materials and lab equipment
- Tested with research team and collected feedback
- Refined designs based on usability and measurement accuracy
Key Design Features
Adjustability: Variable pole heights and diameters to accommodate different experimental protocols and rat sizes
Stability: Secure mounting preventing movement during testing
Measurement Integration: Design facilitated video recording and timing measurements
Animal Welfare: Incorporated safe landing zones and appropriate surface textures
Research Applications
The custom vertical pole apparatus was used to assess:
- Motor coordination deficits post-stroke
- Neurological recovery over time
- Effectiveness of experimental stroke treatments
- Behavioral phenotypes in stroke models
By providing reliable, consistent measurements, the equipment enabled more robust statistical analysis and better experimental reproducibility.
Technical Approach
CAD Design: Used SolidWorks to model apparatus components with precise dimensions and tolerances
Material Selection: Chose materials appropriate for animal testing environments (cleanable, non-toxic, durable)
Custom Fabrication: Built equipment using lab workshop tools and fabrication techniques
Iterative Refinement: Continuously improved design based on researcher feedback and testing results
Impact
The custom-built vertical pole testing equipment directly contributed to ongoing stroke research in the Department of Neurosurgery by:
- Enabling more precise behavioral measurements
- Reducing equipment costs compared to commercial alternatives
- Providing customization specific to lab protocols
- Supporting multiple concurrent research projects
This project demonstrated how custom equipment design can directly enhance research capabilities while developing skills in research methodology, CAD design, and practical fabrication.
Skills Developed
- Understanding behavioral neuroscience research protocols
- Translating research needs into technical specifications
- Iterative design and rapid prototyping
- SolidWorks CAD for research equipment
- Custom fabrication and assembly
- Collaboration with research scientists
Related Work
This project was part of broader work in the Department of Neurosurgery designing custom research equipment. See also:
- Rodent Anesthesia Masks - Custom anesthesia delivery systems for research