Skip to main content

Ergonomic tool to reduce lab technician strain

This project has been secured to protect intellectual property.

Login for More Information

Project Overview

Lab rodents are housed in caging on a stainless steel rack with plastic drawers that slide in and out to hold the animals. Each rack can house 50-100 animals (depending on species). The problem is caused when the plastics stick causing strain on lab tech's shoulders, wrists, elbows because of the high forces needed to pull them. The cages stick much like a used drawer on a dresser. Each cage is opened 6-8 times each day and the tech has to reach the top cages as well as the bottom ones, putting them in frequent awkward postures and loads in the arms and shoulders. Design a cage opener, and devise a way to make the plastic stick less.

Team Picture

Team members from left to right: Matthew Grondin, Olivia Velazquez, Yitong He, Claire Hintz, Micaella Poehler, and Jonathon Leja
Team members from left to right: Matthew Grondin, Olivia Velazquez, Yitong He, Claire Hintz, Micaella Poehler, and Jonathon Leja

Contact Information

Team Members

  • Claire Hintz - Team Leader
  • Jonathon Leja - Communicator
  • Matthew Grondin - Co-BSAC
  • Olivia Velazquez - Co-BSAC
  • Yitong He - BWIG
  • Micaella Poehler - BPAG

Advisor and Client

  • Prof. Tracy Jane Puccinelli - Advisor
  • Dr. Robert Radwin - Client
Back to Top