Timeline & Project Management

Gantt chart 

Throughout the quarter, our team used a Gantt chart to manage deadlines and keep track of our progress. The timeline included critical phases such as background research, CAD modeling in Fusion360, 3D printing at the UCSD Makerspace, and leak testing and evaluation. Early in the project, we focused on identifying clinical needs and developing a feasible problem statement. Midway through, the Gantt chart helped us coordinate CAD design iterations and schedule resin and filament printing sessions. The timeline allocated time for pressure testing and usability evaluation in the final weeks. By assigning team responsibilities across weeks, the Gantt chart ensured we remained aligned and met each deliverable on time.

Project phases and major deadlines 

Week 1–2: Clinical Need Identification

• Researched complications following cardiac surgery

• Defined the mismatch between Cordis introducer and TVP catheter

Week 3: Problem Statement Development

• Finalized design goals and constraints

• Drafted early concepts for the adapter

Week 4–5: CAD Modeling and Initial Prototyping

• Created initial designs (#1–#4) using Fusion360

• Printed prototypes using SLA resin printer at UCSD Makerspace

Week 6: Leak Testing Begins

• Performed water leak tests to evaluate seal integrity

• Adjusted hole size based on early failures

Week 7: Design Refinement

• Reprinted Designs #3 and #4 with revised 2.3 mm hole diameter

• Finalized the most stable version: Design #4

Week 8: Usability and Performance Evaluation

• Conducted ease-of-use testing (setup time averaged under 15 seconds)

• Confirmed the adapter maintained seal up to 30 mmHg

Week 9–10: Report Finalization and Presentation

• Completed technical writing, poster, and video

• Prepared for final submission and team website creation