Create a device to apply constant compression to a patient's chest during cardioversion.

Project Overview

Cardioversion helps restore the normal rhythm of the heart for patients that experience arrhythmias using either electrical or chemical methods. Research shows that applying pressure on the anterior defibrillation pad can increase effectiveness of electrical cardioversion by increasing the delivery of current to the heart and decreasing transthoracic impedance (TTI), which is the resistance of the chest cavity to the electrical shock. Unfortunately, this pressure is currently provided by the hands of the care provider, which is not a safe method as it puts the care provider at risk. Current devices on the market, such as the Zoll AutoPulse Life Band and the Lucas device, are more suitable for the needs of CPR and do not help provide pressure to the defibrillator pad when an electric shock needs to be applied. Given that the Zoll Life Band is patented, the team will aim to create a compatible device that works with the Zoll Life Band. The device will consist of a 3D printed block with pressure sensors implemented to read the provided pressure, and an LED light to signal to the care providers when an electric shock can be applied to the patient. This device will be strapped to the existing Zoll band so it can be reused. The design will be tested for its accuracy and consistency to ensure that it is ready to be used in emergency scenarios.

This device, the Intra-Vert, will provide the same electrical cardioversion application, with the applied pressure to the patient to increase efficiency.

Team Picture

Contact Information

Team Members

• Charlotte Thomas - Co-Team Leader
• Kylie Bamlett - Co-Team Leader
• Elle Heimer - Communicator
• Lakshika Nanda Kumar Reddy - BSAC
• Owen Damkot - BWIG
• Nora Gruman - BPAG

Advisor and Client

• Prof. Randolph Ashton - Advisor
• Ms. Sara Graciano - Client

Related Projects

• Fall 2025: Intra - Vert
• Fall 2023: Intra - Vert