Coronavirus caused COVID-19 pandemic is the worst terrifying episode of mankind’s reign on Earth to date. Not only it has claimed over a hundred thousand lives in its wake, but it has also given many sleepless nights to medical and research professionals across the globe. However, technological advancements occur in the apex of crisis times. Like submarine (U-boats), computers, man’s first step on the moon, etc. have been fruits of war rivalry or race to be labeled as the best of nations. But this is a different battle human civilization is caught up with. With several fields of modern science and computing trying to up the game, there are many unsung heroes too. 3D-printing is such a noble name.

3D printing is viewed as a stopgap solution in this time of crisis of lack of medical equipment shortages. Hospitals and government are turning to industries to come up with innovative ways of resolving this pandemic induced emergency.

Automaker legend Volkswagen is using 3D printing to produce face shield components. This aid comes under a joint transnational initiative by Airbus and the 3D printing network, “Mobility goes Additive”. This collaboration includes about 25 companies. And it will send the necessary components to Spain. ŠKODA has developed a 3D printing process to produce reusable FFP3 respirators. Tech giant HP is employing its 3D printing expertise by turning its research-and-development centers in Spain and the United States into factories to manufacture urgent personal protective equipment (P.P.E.). This includes a hands-free door opener, a clasp that can adjust masks and brackets to hold face shields. Furthermore, the Palo Alto-based firm is also planning to launch a mechanical bag valve mask (BVM) to help COVID-19 patients, along with an FFP3 face mask for the medical providers as soon as the testing and validation phase completes.

Source: www.analyticsinsight.net