ONEC Engineering Co-op Project – Q&A: LifeTransBox

At ONEC, we are committed to fostering the next generation of engineering talent and innovation. By employing engineering students from all disciplines during their co-op study, we provide them with hands-on experience and practical application. For this month’s’ edition of the ONEC Advantage we’re proud to spotlight student Emily Schwitz, a mechanical-biomedical engineering co-op student and her impressive work on the LifeTransBox

Tell us a little about yourself and your professional/academic journey thus far.

I just completed my second year of engineering at the University of Alberta. My past work experience was at a law firm in my hometown, Fort McMurray, Alberta.

Why did you choose Biomedical Engineering?

I chose the biomedical engineering discipline to make a significant impact on people’s lives through innovative technology. The field of biomedical engineering combines my interests in biology, medicine, and engineering, allowing me to develop solutions that address healthcare challenges. By pursuing a career in biomedical engineering, I aim to contribute to advancements in medical technology that improve patient outcomes and enhance people’s quality of life.

Please tell our blog readers about the LifeTransBox and its purpose.

The LifeTransBox is an innovative solution designed to enhance the safety, monitoring, and traceability of organ transportation. The container features a collapsible, insulated exterior bag that maintains optimal temperature conditions for the organ. This bag was measured for the base dimensions to create a 3D-printed interior. The 3D-printed hard shell provides sturdy protection during transit and a spot for the Raspberry Pi and sensors.

I modeled this 3D container in SolidWorks, along with the sensors and wires, to ensure everything fit. Careful design decisions were made to reduce the number of supports required when it was printed. After the model was complete and printed, I carefully assembled the different parts, ensuring everything lined up perfectly. A Raspberry Pi 4 is integrated to collect and transmit real-time data from sensors, including a temperature and humidity sensor and a light sensor.

I programmed the Raspberry Pi in Python to track all this data and upload it to a convenient app. The light sensor detects if the container is open by sensing light exposure. This setup allows for remote monitoring of the organ’s condition. Additionally, the container is equipped with GPS tracking capabilities to ensure the organ’s location can be monitored throughout its journey. I soldered pins to the sensors to allow for easy hookup to the Pi using jumper cables. This solution aims to increase the success rate of organ transplants by improving the safety, transparency, and traceability of the transportation process.

Mentor Aaron Briscall, Mechanical Designer/Industrial Animations and the entire ONEC team are so proud of Emily and her hard work on the LifeTransBox, and we look forward to seeing her continued growth and success.

Interested in a co-op term at ONEC? Contact us today for more information at hr@onecgroup.com.