Exploring Stem Cells: The Benefits of Stem Cell Research Exhibition MOSI
Design Problem
Stem cells are an often debated topic; there is a need to inform future generations about the benefits of stem cell research because they are the ones that would benefit from further stem cell research.
Solution
The final design is an exhibition showcasing many of the medical breakthroughs that will be possible in the future thanks to stem cells. Guests will first learn about stem cells and how they work, as they continue through the exhibition guest will learn about the potential medical advancements in an interactive and engaging way.
Exhibit Map
Large exhibits typically include a map of the exhibit with the suggested path guests take. This helps ensures that guests can get the most impactful experience possible.
What Are Stem Cells
This exhibit educates guests as to what stem cells are, what the unique characteristics of stem cells are and why there is a controversy surrounding them.
Printable Organs
This exhibit illustrates a potential medical benefit of stem cell research. Using a 3D printer and stem cells it will be possible to “print” organs. Guests can experience this first hand as they watch an organ print. This effect is created by projecting a video from behind onto a curved surface; this gives a sense of depth to the projection.
Cell Division Maze (Entrance)
This exhibit takes guest on a tour of cell division as they traverse the ‟maze” of cell division. Pictured is the entrance to the maze. There is the exhibit's 'tile panel' and a panel that serves as a sort of primer for guests to help them get the most out of the exhibit.
Cell Division Maze (Node)
At each fork in the cell division maze there is a “node” where guests can stop to learn a bit of information. Each node details the phase of division the guest is current passing through. To add some interactivty, the panels' backlights are dimmed until a guest enters the node.
Re-Grow a Limb
One of the potential uses for stem cells is using them as a catalyst for the rapid regrowth of tissue. This exhibit allows guest to re-grow their lost arm. The information panel for this exhibit is two sided as the exhibit is in the middle of the exhibition.
Re-Grow a Limb (Detail)
This illustrates how the arm re-growth chair functions. When guests insert their arm into the tube, the re-growth animation is triggered as well as motorized brushes that work in sync with the animation to create a "tingling" sensation down the guest's arm.
Grow Your Own Rock Candy
To raise money for stem cell research guests can make a donation and receive a Grow Your Own Rock Candy kit. They way rock candy forms is reminiscent of how stem cells multiply.