Formlabs has fielded hundreds of requests, evaluated dozens of potential applications for 3D printed products, and is now supporting a handful of projects with high-impact potential. The current priority areas were selected based on clinical demand, technical feasibility, and regulatory implications. Priority areas for focus include test kit swabs, ventilator splitters, and face shields. Once designs have been tested and validated by the medical community, Formlabs has the resources available to scale production to tens of thousands of parts per week. We are ready to engage our internal resources and community of skilled volunteers to produce parts for healthcare providers all over the world.
Conversion Kits
Front-line providers are running out of personal protective equipment (PPE). At many hospitals, there is a very limited supply of PPE remaining. PPE includes face masks and/or respirators (e.g. N95 masks) and face shields. In addition, the typical forms of PPE are disposable and more durable solutions are needed given the limited supply. Moreover, most PPE is designed to be used for minutes at a time, not for an entire day.
Solution
Adapting a full face snorkel mask to fit a filter already in use for breathing circuits and in hospitals. Because this filter is reusable, and unavailable/unknown to the general public, it will be less at risk to be taken from providers treating ill patients.
Validation Status
Dr. Alex Stone and Dr. Jacqueline Boehme from a leading Boston hospital are currently testing and validating designs for: seal, breathability, fogging, and ability to communicate with other physicians while wearing it.
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