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13. Applications and implications

This week, I considered the applications and implications of the skills that I’ve learned so far in the Fab Academy Class. Specifically, I aimed to clearly develop the concept for my final project.

Assignment: Propose a final project masterpiece that integrates the range of units covered, answering:

What will it do?

The purpose of my project is to create a CPR dummy that accurately simulates Cardio-pulmonary Resuscitation techniques.

Who’s done what beforehand?

As of 2019, there are many types of CPR dummies for sale. Here are a few versions from the most notable brands with their price points as of 2019. The dummies marked with an ‘*’ are digitalized.

While these manikins matched my desired product, I did not want to spend $100+ dollars on the comercially available dummies.

Here are a few DIY tutorials that I found online.

I did not find a tutorial that truly matched my desired goals, but I thought the last two articles provided some relevant information!

What will you design?

I want to design a digitalized compression system that feels similar to the real life environment, while simultaneously providing beneficial feedback to the user.

  • Part: 3D Printed Check Valve

  • Purpose: Simulate the 2 rescue breaths.

  • Part: Silicon Chest Mold

  • Purpose: Encase the flex sensors, mimic resistence involved with compressions

  • Part: Flex Sensor Board

  • Purpose: Calculate the compression depth/rate

What materials and components will be used? Where will come from? How much will they cost?

Qty Description Price Link
1 Flex Sensor 15.95$ https://www.sparkfun.com/products/8606
1 Mold Star 30 32.22$ https://www.reynoldsam.com/product/mold-star/
1 Rubber O-Ring 2.48$ https://www.homedepot.com/p/DANCO-11-O-Rings-10-Pack-96728/100552269
1 3/4” Acrylic Ball 1.70$ https://www.outwater.com/products/12012/

Any additonal materials are already found in the CLS Fab Lab.

What parts and systems will be made?

I will make all the parts and systems listed above.

What processes will be used?

  • I will Fusion 360 to design my check valve and mold.

  • To print the check valve, I will use the LulzBot printers and Cura software.

  • To create the mold, I will use the ShopBot. I will then cast the silicon chest piece by following the molding and casting processes outlined in Week 10.

  • Using Eagle, I will design my electronics. I will mill my boards using the OtherMill machines and Bantam software.

What questions need to be answered?

  • I need to figure out a way to connect the flex sensors on either side of the chest. I will work on this in Week 14: Networking and communications.

  • I need to figure out a way to share the calculated data with the user. Hopefully, I can develop an application in Week 16: Interface and application programming.

What tasks need to be completed?

Over the next few weeks, I need to…

  1. Redesign my Check Valve. I hope to design a better inner ball and seal. I will do this by purchasing a ball and rubber o-ring to install in my valve. I do not think that the 3D printers at Charlotte Latin can achieve the precision for the seal that I desire.

  2. Cast Flex Sensors and Check Valve into Baby Mold. I need to figure out a way to cast the components of my project into my silicon baby doll model for my final product. I need to minimize the dampening of my sensors while also hiding the ‘ugly’ electronics and wiring.

  3. Create a visual representation of the data that my circuit is receiving. I want to possibly develop an application during week 16 that interfaces with my circuit to display the pressure amount.

What is the schedule?

Here is a gantt chart outlining the schedule for my final product. I noted some steps that I have already taken towards the completion of my project.

How will it be evaluated?

I will evaluate my project with this article which explains the three main parts of CPR (CAB):

  1. C ompressions: CPR begins with 30 chest compressions

  2. A irway: After 30 compressions have been completed, the victim’s airway must be open for breathing to be restored

  3. B reathing: Once the airway is opened, two rescue breaths must be given

I would like to simulate as much of this list as I can in the given time limit.

Additionally, I want to develop an aesthetically pleasing final product. I hope to do this by casting a majority of my circuitry in my silicon chest piece.

Your project should incorporate: 2D design and 3D design, Additive and subtractive fabrication processes, Electronics design and production, Microcontroller interfacing and programming, System integration and packaging