Prusa mass produces medical shields to fight COVID-19

The open-source 3D printer manufacturer Prusa has shown its support by 3D printing hundreds of medical shields for medical staff. It joins the many players in the additive manufacturing industry who have launched various initiatives to combat COVID-19. The mask designed by Prusa is a 3D printed face shield, to be placed over a conventional surgical mask. It protects the eyes and blocks the spread of microbes and germs. In three days, the teams obtained dozens of prototypes, Prusa explained that the first units have just been sent to hospital for field tests and checks.

You may be familiar with the model of this protective mask. In fact, Prusa started from a file available on GrabCAD, which it then adapted for easier 3D printing. You may also have seen it on the Budmen Industries website, where the founding couple printed a few hundred of them in their cellar. Josef Prusa wanted to send an important message to his community: “I don’t intend to hamper the vibe we have now – not by a long shot, but printing respirators might not be the best idea at this time. Let me explain. None of the designs available right now have been tested to ensure they provide the protections needed, at least none of the ones I am aware of. To help with this, we have collected as many designs as we could find, and are working with experts to see if we can verify which ones really work. What are the key focus points? First, it’s the sealing, then the filter itself, the filter to the mask, and how the mask attaches to the face – it all must be perfect. Most of us print rigid materials that are hard to make compliant for seals. Even if we can get a good seal, will it remain functional e.g. even when the wearer talks?“

Josef Prusa wearing the 3D printed face shield

3D printed face shield: a safer option?

The teams therefore decided to create a solution that would protect the entire face, to be placed over a mask, thus avoiding any safety issues. Indeed, a 3D printed mask raises some questions: what about the resistance of the plastic as the wearer breathes, creating a humid and warm area, a breeding ground for germs? Healthcare professionals cannot take this risk. That’s why such a shield seems less restrictive at first glance.