This month’s maker is Abby Schrock, admin officer and master control sub-system admin at the Clinical Lab Transfusion Service. We caught up with them to see what they made.
Q: What did you make?
Blood Bank reagent racks.
Q: Why did you want to make it?
Our current ones were falling apart, and we were no longer able to procure. It is a seemingly simple object, but it makes completing the critical Immunohematology testing our clinical lab scientists perform a little easier.
Q: What was your process?
First, we inquired with our lab’s Quality Control specialist and a few staff regarding usage, then we took measurements. I sketched the rack and added a wish list of updates. I then worked with Makers Lab to figure out how it might be designed and printed. We used test prints to further refine the design then settled on a final before reprinting.
Q: What was the hardest part of the process?
Considering changes to the design when I don’t use the rack in my job.
Q: What was your favorite part of the process?
Collaborating with Scott at Makers Lab (a 3-D printing magician!) to create an even better version than we imagined. Also realizing my design and drawing skills from junior high wood shop are still coming in handy!
Q: What do you want to make next?
Probably more racks for our Mission Bay lab. Another chance to refine and improve!