This week we finally finished our prototype and got to testing! Going into this week we were on prototype number 8 (below) which was a refined harness. Basically we perfected how we wanted the straps on the actual float. We also added a large pool noodle along the front strap which helped prevent the user from tilting forward. The test we invented to test whether or not the tracheal tube would get wet (or even get within 4 inches of the water) we would tape a piece of paper onto the tester’s throat and if the paper got wet, the test would fail. We ignored effects of splashing considering that is something we cannot control and there will be splashing no matter how we design the device. While we were designing we tried to minimize splashing as much as possible.

While the device did pass our safety test, it did not excel at the safety test. Since failure of safety could potentially result in death for the targeted user, we decided to take the extra time to improve safety and created our 9th and final prototype (below). Basically what we improved in this prototype is that we added vertical straps for more support under the arms.

Additionally what we worked on this week was an instructional video and set of written instructions for the family to be able to recreate what we’ve done and make fixes should the need arise. Since the original target for the lifespan of this device is 60 years (which is impractical for us to do) we figured we would instead create a list of materials and instructions on how to create the device from scratch.

Today we worked on creating the video of how to get the straps onto the device. We had an issue that I was the only on in the entire group who could assemble the device, so I created a video and had the group assemble the device. On Monday we will finish labeling all the straps.

Moving forward, next week we will finish our user testing at the pool Monday and also finish labeling all our straps. We test with the user on Tuesday and give final presentations on Wednesday.