Series 3: Medical Instruments and Prototypes, 1974-1991

This series of three-dimensional objects gathers together components of various artificial heart and cardiac assist devices as well as related design models and medical instruments. Many unidentified objects are listed in the inventory based on their physical appearance (e.g. "[Green and silver valve with metal hooks]"). There are four sub-series: Artificial Hearts and Ventricular Assist Devices, Power Sources and Associated Devices, Models, and Supplies. The Artificial Hearts and Ventricular Assist Devices sub-series consists of metal ventricular assist devices, yellow plastic heart parts, volume compensators, various conduits, and a folder of images. Several components come from Willem Kolff's Laboratory at the University of Utah. Of particular note is the original silver carrying case that contains a Thermedics Inc Left Ventricular Assist System, operating instructions, negatives, and a CD of images. The Power Sources and Associated Devices sub-series consists of batteries, computer parts, cables, module parts, and a folder of images. The Models sub-series includes diagrams and three-dimensional renderings in wood or metal. The Supplies sub-series contains miscellaneous items such as jars, blood oxygenators, and catheters. The intellectual arrangement of the objects is alphabetical by name or description. The physical housing was based on the relative size, shape, and weight of the objects; individual compartments were constructed to store each item within a box. Folder numbers for boxes 17-20 refer to the item's compartment.