2024
Kit Production
The Molecular Evolution Core Laboratory requested the design team I led to make an in-house production process for testing kits used by lab personnel. Over the span of a year, I researched and prototyped the methods and materials of small-batch test kit packaging.
Production Methods
CAD Rendering
Product Design
Client /
GT Molecular Evolution Core Lab
Multiple templates were designed and laser cut into different widths of chipboard and cardboard. Each kit was given to multiple lab personnel for feedback on usability and size. Templates were adjusted as needed to meet size requirements for lab storage, withstand falls without opening, and ease of assembly.
For larger scale production (over 20 boxes per batch), a screen printing method was implemented on the freshly-cut chipboard. Screen printing took months for our team to master, given nobody had experience with the materials. Over-time, the design team successfully used vinyl to make screen templates while continuing to practice the act of screen printing. The team was forced to switch our focus to smaller batches due to our main client going bankrupt.
For smaller-scale production (20 or less boxes per batch), a taping method was implemented before sealing. Double sided tape used to apply a paper outer layer with the kit design was decidedly better than other methods tested, such as hot glue and a glue stick. The tape was able to hold the paper in place without causing wrinkles or bumps in the paper. The seal acted as extra security keeping the paper and chipboard together. A team member went on to do humidity testing to ensure our box is able to keep samples safe in a lab freezer. We tested boxes sealed on the interior and boxes sealed on both sides. Both had similar humidity results, but we decided a double seal is best for a lab environment dealing with human specimen samples.
