The annual iDesign competition, open to teams led by any Penn student, promotes the design of physical objects that solve a real-world problem by offering both financial support and mentorship to realize the winning concept. This year’s five short-listed proposals present life-changing solutions for millions of Americans of all ages and women in developing countries. Narrowed from a field of 31, teams will complete for $50,000 to bring an innovative product to market. The event takes place Monday, April 25, 6:30pm at Meyerson Hall, Upper Gallery, 210 South 34th Street, Philadelphia. The pitch session will culminate in an awards ceremony and public reception; admission is free.
Project: RightAir
Team: Jake Brenner, Chris Polster, Perry Dubin, Mike Sims
Millions of Americans feel like they are suffocating when they do the simplest activities as a result of COPD (emphysema), making it the second leading cause of disability in the US. RightAir's AIR-AD is a portable respiratory assistance device intended to help COPD sufferers finally breathe easy again.