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Collaboration Creates Shared Learning for Manufacturing and Respiratory Students

August 2022
  • 3D lung models in the Fab Lab.
    3D lung models in the Fab Lab.

Manufacturing Technology and Respiratory Care have been working together on a project that mutually benefits both departments with the most up-to-date and hands-on learning possible. A few years ago, Assistant Professor of Respiratory Care Amy Hogan invested in a 3D program of a lung model. Professor Hogan then worked with former Fab Lab Manager Nicholas Bold, faculty from the Manufacturing Technology program, and two manufacturing students, to develop not only a 3D printed lung model prototype, but also a mold to produce as many lung models as there are students. 

Under the guidance of Associate Professor/Coordinator of Manufacturing Technology Lee Duerden and Professor of Manufacturing Technology Damian Kiernan, students Samuel Nessenthal and Christian Thompson joined the project and helped make the models viable for a classroom setting, which involved sourcing appropriate materials, creating detachable segments of the model and creating a cost-effective mold to support future iterations of the project. Due to this collaborative effort, the Respiratory Care program was able to save hundreds of dollars per lung model. 

The models are vital for teaching anatomy and lung related procedures and techniques.

"The respiratory students must be intimately familiar with lung anatomy and physiology. Many of the therapies and treatments target specific segments of the lung. This lung model will be utilized in nearly all RCP courses," Professor Hogan said.

Professor Hogan also noted that she would like to continue this process for other anatomical models such as the alveolus and cardiopulmonary circulation. 

 

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