Innovative Project Gets Mixed Reactions

Confusion might not be the usual response you want from a client, but for a group of Digital Media and IT (DMIT) students, it marked the beginning of something extraordinary. In January, John Sutherland, director of NAIT’s Centre for Advanced Medical Simulation (CAMS), approached DMIT chair Steve Chattargoon with a bold suggestion: could students create a digital twin of the facility? Essentially, this virtual copy would serve as an interactive model, enhancing training and showcasing capabilities to future industry clients.

A Wave of Student Enthusiasm

Chattargoon was all in and quickly pitched the idea to DMIT Animation students. Seventeen eager students jumped at the chance, excited not just to showcase their talents but to gain valuable portfolio pieces for future job opportunities. Plus, this initiative would save CAMS significant costs on outsourcing.

Surprising Breakthroughs

By late February, CAMS manager Carolyn Kincade received an exciting update from the team. As she examined their initial images of the CAMS rooms and corridors, she expected renders of the project. What she received, however, were fully realized digital versions, far exceeding her expectations.

A Virtual Replica Like No Other

Opened in 2016, CAMS is already reminiscent of a set from a medical drama—over 6,000 square feet filled with simulated hospital environments, multimedia-rich rooms, and control areas for facilitators. The students meticulously captured every detail in their digital twin—from the layout to lighting fixtures and even flooring textures. Kincade expressed her amazement, stating, "Everything was beyond what we thought it would be!"

Interactive Features That Impress

The digital twin allows for the integration of approximately 200 pieces of equipment that can be placed anywhere within the simulation. Users can interact with the environment just as they would in reality: drawers can be opened, beds can be adjusted—everything mirrors functionality in the real world. The students' commitment to accuracy was evident as they employed tape measures and extensive research to ensure every aspect was perfect.

Collaboration Leads to Success

According to Katie Blakely, the project leader, the teamwork was a major factor in their success. Unlike typical small group capstone projects, they divided into specialized teams, introduced effective workflows, and conducted regular check-ins to keep everyone on track. Blakely proudly reflected on their achievements, acknowledging the initial concerns about managing such a large group.

A Promising Future for CAMS

Their ambitious goal yielded results sooner than expected, with the project wrapping up in just 11 weeks instead of the predicted timeline. Juan Giannitti, who led the room replication team, recognized the groundwork they laid for future improvements. CAMS isn't just limited to this version; the digital twin could grow with enhancements like virtual or augmented reality in future semesters.

Endless Possibilities Ahead

Sutherland highlighted the potential use cases for this groundbreaking project. Could it facilitate better surgical suite layouts? Help create smart hospitals? Identify solutions for ER wait time reductions? "There are so many applications we hadn’t even considered," he remarked, calling the digital twin a game changer for their already remarkable facility.

With real-life implications and advanced capabilities, this student-led initiative is redefining educational opportunities in medical simulation, expanding CAMS's horizons into the digital era.