The SafetyBreak project involved the development of a device to be used in fluid delivery systems. The device is designed to disconnect when the connecting tube is pulled on with a specific amount of force. The goal of the project was to create a part which would help prevent PEG (Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy) tubes from being fully dislodged. PEG tubes are used to provide nutrition directly to the stomach of medical patients with head and neck trauma. The accidental removal of these PEG tubes requires immediate attention. The SafetyBreak coupling is designed to prevent such an emergency. My role on the project was to help design the device from the ground up. I performed all of the CAD work, helped formulate and perform test procedures, researched for similar patented designs, and created prototypes of each design iteration. I worked directly with medical students and doctors during the project. The SafetyBreak mechanism was undergoing FDA testing at the time I left the group.
