Nishita K's Senior Project Blog
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Project Title: Pulse of Innovation: 3D Printing the Blueprint of Life BASIS Advisor: Tommaso Cioni Internship Location: Biomedical Engineering, University of Arizona Onsite Mentor: Dr. Minkyu Kim, Associate Professor |
Project Abstract
For my senior project, I will design and construct a 3D-printed model of the human heart that accurately represents its anatomical structure. This project aims to enhance cardiovascular health education by providing an interactive and visually detailed learning tool. By combining in-depth research with advanced modeling techniques, I hope to make complex cardiac concepts more accessible and engaging, particularly for students, educators, and patients interested in health sciences. Given that cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of mortality worldwide, increasing awareness of heart anatomy and the impact of lifestyle choices on heart health is essential. To illustrate both normal and pathological conditions, I will create two heart models: one depicting a healthy heart and another showcasing Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP), a condition where the mitral valve does not close properly, affecting blood flow. This comparative approach will help users visualize the structural differences and understand the potential consequences of heart disease. To ensure scientific accuracy, I will conduct thorough research using medical textbooks, peer-reviewed journals, and consultations with healthcare professionals. The heart models will be designed using CAD software and fabricated with a 3D printer at the University of Arizona. The final models will serve as valuable educational tools for biology lessons, community health presentations, and STEM outreach initiatives. By integrating research, technology, and education, this project not only promotes a deeper understanding of cardiovascular health but also underscores the importance of preventative care. Through this initiative, I aim to inspire curiosity in STEM fields, encourage proactive health management, and contribute to a broader effort in bridging the gap between science and public awareness.
Week 10: Final Reflections on My 3D Heart Model Project
Hello and welcome to my final blog post! As I approach the conclusion of my senior project, this week has been all about refining the final details of my 3D anatomical heart model. I’ve been meticulously polishing the structure, ensuring that every chamber, valve, and vessel is as accurate and detailed as possible. My goal... Read More
Week 9: Shaping Complexity
Welcome back, everyone! This week has been all about refining and perfecting my 3D heart model. As I near the end of this project, I’ve been focusing on editing, smoothing out details, and enhancing anatomical accuracy. I can confidently say that this experience has been both a challenge and a deeply rewarding learning process. Creating... Read More
Week 8: Putting the Final Pieces Together
Welcome back! After weeks of research, learning, and trial-and-error, I’ve officially decided to use Blender as the platform for constructing my 3D anatomical heart model—and I couldn’t be more excited. Blender offers the perfect balance of artistic freedom and scientific accuracy, which is exactly what I need for my current project: creating a high-poly, realistic... Read More
Week 7: Modeling the Heart
Welcome back! This week, I have completed finishing the outside of my 3D heart, while I continue to design and model the interior of my heart. While I haven’t printed it just yet, the exterior digital model is complete, and I’m excited to see it come to life soon. I started this project with a... Read More
Week 6: Advancing My 3D Heart Prototype – Progress, Challenges, and New Insights
Hello and welcome back, everyone! This week, I have continued working on developing my 3D heart model. Throughout this process, I have encountered several challenges, particularly in scaling the heart accurately and designing the four chambers with proper proportions. Ensuring that each chamber— the right atrium, right ventricle, left atrium, and left ventricle—is correctly positioned... Read More
Week 5: A Deeper Dive into Mitral Valve Prolapse
This week, I am taking the time to delve deeper into the disease that my second heart model will be displaying: Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP). Mitral valve prolapse is a type of heart valve disease that affects the valve between the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart. In this condition, the flaps (leaflets)... Read More
Week 4: Exploring the World of 3D Modeling
This week, I embarked on an exciting journey into the world of 3D modeling, a skill that I believe will be invaluable for my project. To ease into the process, I started with TinkerCAD, a beginner-friendly software that allowed me to grasp the fundamentals of 3D design. I followed an online tutorial and successfully created... Read More
Week 3: Transitioning from Anatomy to Digital Reconstruction
Hello and welcome back! This week, with a solid foundation in heart anatomy, I have transitioned into the preliminary design phase of my project. I studied various existing 3D heart models to identify effective approaches to digital reconstruction. Some models focus on external heart structures, while others incorporate intricate internal components such as valves, arteries,... Read More
Week 2: Exploring Cardiac Anatomy and Blood Flow
This week, I dedicated my efforts to expanding my understanding of cardiac anatomy and pathological conditions. To ensure the accuracy and depth of my knowledge, I consulted medical textbooks, peer-reviewed journal articles, and clinical studies. My primary objective was to develop a precise and anatomically accurate 3D model of the human heart, requiring a thorough... Read More
Week 1: Bringing the Heart to Life: An Introduction to 3D Construction
Welcome to my senior project blog! You’ve probably heard the phrase, “Put your heart into your work.” Well, I’m taking that route quite literally by constructing a 3D model of one! My name is Nishita Karikatti, and I am a senior at BASIS Oro Valley. Science has always been a passion of mine, and I’ve... Read More