Imagine RIT
Exhibit Highlight
Simulation Device Measures Impact of Smoking
The device, built with the assistance of Kathleen Lamkin-Kennard, assistant professor of mechanical engineering, simulates how particles inhaled with cigarette smoke build up over time and measures the impact the process can have on breathing, digestion and lung capacity. The machine will be incorporated into particle analysis research by Risa Robinson, associate professor of mechanical engineering, and funded through the American Cancer Society.
“Previous research on the impact of particle deposits has focused on inundating laboratory samples with toxins and studying the response, the so called ‘avalanche’ approach,” notes Robinson. “The use of this device will allow us to utilize the ‘snow flake’ method whereby particles are allowed to build up over time, as they would in the body.”
Robison and Lamkin-Kennard believe the research can provide better evidence of the real-time effects of smoking and more properly link how particle buildup impacts numerous systems in the body. They also hope to shed light on how these particles can impact passive smokers, through second hand smoke, and use the data in additional types of particle analysis, including studying the impacts of air pollution and the performance of inhaled medications.
All students in RIT’s Kate Gleason College of Engineering are required to formulate, design and construct a project in their field of study during their fifth/senior year in the program.