Heart Valve Modeling

Evidence of Work

We have been tasked to explore the complex cardiovascular system, specifically the heart. Our main goal is to develop a model that can be used to test the properties of the heart valves with materials found in the classroom/at our homes. In order to design our model we did extensive research on the aortic and mitral valve, superior vena cava, left pulmonary artery and more. We gathered materials that would accurately resemble that of a real heart valve tissue. When observing our model we are specifically paying attention to the pathway of blood flow. It is also key that our model recoils back to its open position.

Before building our model we tested the elasticity of the individual materials we were going to use. We tested the elasticity of a balloon, sponge and water bottle.

Below is an image of our Padlet (Contains brainstorm ideas and information on the heart)

Pictures of testing the elasticity of materials used in our model.

Aorta.pdf

Above is a google doc containing different valves of the heart. You will see there are many different areas and things that make up a heart.

Spread sheet containing collected data

Youngs Modulus Graphs (calculations/data)

Our 1st attempt at creating a model. (The water dripped back down and this isn't how an actual heart functions)

Selina Ruano - Young’s Modulus Practice Problems

Final Model (Made the color of the water red to represent blood)

Copy of Heart Valve Report

Final Report Containing all research and videos

Content

Elasticity: defined by a materials ability to return to original shape after stress is applied then removed.
Valve Tissue: their function is to promote coordinated forward blood flow during the cardiac cycle, and they are highly organized connective tissue structures populated with dynamic cell populations
Force: strength or energy as an attribute of physical action or movement
young's modulus: a measure of the ability of a material to withstand changes in length when under lengthwise tension or compression; a measure of elasticity that is found by dividing stress over strain
Heart: muscular organ which pumps blood through the circulatory system by rhythmic contraction and dilation. It contains four main chambers powered by electrical impulses.

Research Forces, Elasticity, Stress, Strain and Young’s Modulus

Reflection

For part of the project I was sick, so I was unable to come to school and work directly with my group. However, this did not stop me from communicating with my group. I created a group chat with my teammates and asked them what we were doing in class. I volunteered to work on aspects of the report which was online and made sure to ask questions if I was ever confused. They sent me progression videos of the different models.

Towards the end of the project I was feeling better, so I came back to school and got to work hands on with my group. I made sure to help take videos of the model and look at the different materials since I mainly worked on the online report when I was home. I collaborated with all teammates and made sure to always be friendly and respectful of their ideas.

When it came to designing a model that would accurately resemble the functions of a heart, I wasn't that helpful. I wasn't as helpful as other teammates because I struggled thinking outside of the box. Next time I should brainstorm any idea that pops in my head no matter how silly it is. A person will never know if a silly idea can actually create something great.

Another thing I can improve on is my critical thinking skills. When our first model did not function correctly I felt discouraged and could not think of a possible solution. Instead of thinking of new ways to fix the model I wen't back to the report because it was something I knew how to do. Next time if a problem arises I will stick with it and take my time to finding solutions.

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