The coronavirus (COVID19) pandemic has left healthcare systems globally scrambling for much needed equipment to fight the virus, things like masks, gowns and respirators are all in short supply and equipment is not always getting to the places it's needed. 3D printing offers one solution to the problem and has become a useful tool because it allows designers to build and test prototypes far quicker than previously possible.
People are finding innovative ways in order to protect both themselves and others during these troubled times and many local groups have sprung up on social media, connecting those with the ability to produce 3D printed PPE with those in need.
Tom Furnival, Patent Attorney in our Cambridge office has recently joined one such local group and is making use of his 3D Printer to provide 3D printed face shields to key workers. Whilst each member of the group might only produce two or three completed masks a day, this local group already has over 200 members and so is able to produce between 400 and 600 masks a day for use locally.
Thank you to Tom and the army of volunteers who have stepped up to join the fight against coronavirus.
