LEGO creatures, houses, even cities– been there, done that. How about a LEGO anesthesia machine? Yes, there exists one, thanks to artist Eric Harshbarger, who was commissioned by GE Healthcare to accomplish such an endeavor for a trade show.
“I had to be talked into it. GE Healthcare had approached me in March of the year and started asking how much such a model would cost. I don’t give out specific numbers on my website, but suffice it to say that my initial quote was a lot.
“I have not focused on building 3D sculptures for some time now, and building a giant hospital contraption did not really pique my interest enough to change my mind,” says Harshbarger.
The Challenge of Building a LEGO Anesthesia Machine
Creating a LEGO anesthesia machine is no small feat. Harshbarger had to meticulously plan and design the model to ensure it accurately represented the real machine. This involved studying the actual anesthesia machine provided by GE Healthcare, understanding its components, and translating that into LEGO form. The project required over 30,000 white LEGO bricks, a testament to the complexity and scale of the model.
The process began in May 2011, with Harshbarger dedicating countless hours to the project. Each brick had to be carefully placed to replicate the intricate details of the anesthesia machine. The challenge was not just in the construction but also in ensuring the model was sturdy enough to be transported and displayed at the trade show.
The Significance of the LEGO Anesthesia Machine
The LEGO anesthesia machine made its debut at GE’s trade show in mid-October, where it garnered significant attention. This unique creation served as a powerful marketing tool, drawing visitors to GE Healthcare’s booth and sparking conversations about the company’s innovative medical equipment. The use of LEGO, a universally recognized and beloved toy, helped to humanize the complex and often intimidating world of medical technology.
Moreover, the LEGO anesthesia machine highlights the versatility and creativity that LEGO bricks can inspire. While most people associate LEGO with playful creations like houses and cities, this project demonstrates that LEGO can also be used to create detailed and functional models of real-world objects. It challenges the perception of LEGO as merely a child’s toy and showcases its potential as a medium for artistic and educational purposes.
Harshbarger’s work on the LEGO anesthesia machine also underscores the importance of collaboration between artists and industries. By commissioning an artist to create a LEGO model of their product, GE Healthcare was able to present their technology in a new and engaging way. This collaboration not only benefited GE Healthcare but also provided Harshbarger with a unique and challenging project that pushed the boundaries of his artistic skills.
The LEGO anesthesia machine is a remarkable example of what can be achieved when creativity and technology intersect. It serves as a reminder that even the most complex and serious subjects can be approached with a sense of playfulness and innovation. Thanks to Eric Harshbarger’s dedication and skill, this project has left a lasting impression on both the LEGO and medical communities.
via Technabob
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
