After researching the many ideas and methods available the CCL decided to focus its efforts on 3D printing parts for face shields. We are building off of work done by @prusalab and tested in the field by @storrslab_uncc then integrated designs approved by the NIH. Early prototypes included work by @princetonarchitecture and a team led by @therealmitchmcewen We are amazed by the fabrication community’s willingness to share and think through how to responsibly help during this difficult time. A small contribution to the many fighting this pandemic on the front lines.
Much thanks to the CCL student team who are on socially distanced rotation for their work in making this happen: @anna.lukens @bryankdellett @tybeers25 @gautam__pradeep @michaelstanley_ @oddodoingthings @thegreatgasper @hannahmae_96 If you are in Iowa and could benefit from a donation of DIY single use face shields then please let us know. @arch.iastate @isucollegeofdesign #covid19 #digitalfabrication #faceshields #3dprinting
Our goal is to produce 1,500-2,000 face shields in the coming weeks for donation to local and rural Iowa hospitals, with distribution coordinated by Alliant Energy. (There are many unknowns that might keep us from that goal but we will work as long as we can!)
The results are likely an imperfect solution but as PPE is in short supply in Iowa we are doing what we can with our 3D printing and modeling experience. If you are a medical professional and can provide feedback please e-mail here or message us on Instagram @ISU_CCL.
Equipment
Files
The original design came from Prusa Labs in the Czech Republic:
- We began with this version and are adapting as we learn https://www.prusaprinters.org/prints/26474-prusa-rc2-no-elastic-required-secure-with-rope-web
- Then began integrating approved designs from the NIH 3D Print Exchange which offers a model repository for COVID-19-related designs. This collection contains only “authorized, validated, or otherwise tested designs that can be used by manufacturers to fill gaps in the supply chain.” More info on Forbes.
Live link to 3D print files and face shield files and previous iterations
RC2 was tested by medical professionals and adapted by Alex Cabral and the team at Storrs Lab at the University of North Carolina – Charlotte.
What we have learned is a 0.5kg roll of filament of PLA will yield +/- 20 face shield parts (top headband and bottom piece). Our team is wearing masks and gloves and Clorox wiping down everything as we go and immediately storing in plastic bags.
3D Printed Parts Using
Face Shields
- .010 SH82 Clear Polyester from regalgraphics.com
Head Straps
Bags to Store
CCL Student Employees
- Tyler Beers, BArch ‘20
- Bryan Dellett, BArch ’23
- Jacob Gasper, BArch ’22
- Anna Lukens, BArch ‘20
- Michael Oddo, BArch ‘20
- Gautam Pradeep, BArch ’22
- Michael Stanley, BArch ‘20
- Hannah Underwood, BArch ‘20
Press
ISU News Service Iowa State students 3D-printing face shields for Iowa hospitals
Iowa Public Radio https://www.iowapublicradio.org/post/isu-architecture-students-make-face-shields-help-healthcare-workers-during-pandemic
Ames Tribune https://www.amestrib.com/news/20200401/isu-students-alliant-energy-partner-to-create-face-shields-for-iowa-hospitals
WHO https://whotv.com/news/coronavirus/iowa-state-students-3d-print-ppe-for-health-care-workers/
Architexx https://www.instagram.com/p/B-7HyFpJsl7/
Disclaimer
From the ISU Office of University Counsel: ISU makes no warranties, express or implied, as to the donated equipment, including, without limitation, compliance with quality, regulatory, accreditation or national standards of care. ISU expressly disclaims any warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement related to the donated equipment. Users of donated equipment should independently determine whether the donated equipment is appropriate for the use intended.
