Our Project

I worked in a group of four to create a product that would combat perioperative hypothermia. Once our group formed, we began by finding a viable problem space, which entailed researching the physiological needs, users, historical context, and economic factors associated with each idea. After deciding on perioperative hypothermia, we closely examined current methods used to treat perioperative hypothermia. We focused on electric blankets because they can rapidly alleviate symptoms while being cost-effective; the primary problem is that they cannot be used during surgery. Beyond the electrical and fire hazards they pose, electric blankets do not allow surgical access. So, we brainstormed 100 potential preventative treatments that could solve the problem, and we slowly reduced our options using Human Factors design principles until we reached a consensus. We believed that a heating blanket could be made using warm water circulated in tubes throughout the blanket. The blanket itself would be configurable to the patient, allowing certain areas to be exposed while keeping other areas warm. We made over 20 prototypes aimed at heating patients while allowing surgical access, and our final prototype used thin vinyl tubing inside of a cotton and polyester blanket with five sections. The sections could be unzipped and pulled back to reveal the area that needed surgery. After months of work, we presented our findings and recommended a course of action for the future.

Personal Growth

This project gave me insight into the product design process. I gained hands-on experience with human-oriented design, concept generation, engineering drawing, computer-aided design, rapid prototyping, manufacturing methods, graphic design, and branding while improving my conflict management, communication, teamwork, critical thinking, attention to detail, and presentation skills. I learned how industry works and how to thrive in a fast-paced environment. Most of all, I now understand how to go from idea to innovation.