JuggerBot 3D Produces Face Shields for Caregivers
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, there have been 54,453 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in 54 jurisdictions (50 states, District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and US Virgin Island) as from January 21st to March 25th, 2020. As a result, PPE is in short supply across the globe, and 3D printer operators across the nation have been called upon to focus their production on devices needed to protect healthcare workers.
Although JuggerBot 3D focuses on the production of industrial-grade 3D printers, we have long-maintained an internal printing service using some of our own machines. Due to the current situation at hand, the efforts and resources are being redirected to aid in the supply of devices for those fighting against COVID-19.
WHAT IT IS
After vetting a variety of designs, JuggerBot 3D finalized a Face Shield design influenced by the Prusa RC2. Each Face Shield is comprised of a 3D printed visor, an elastic band, and a PC/PETG sheet. Additional details about the features and functionality are provided below:
- Helps to protect against droplet transmission to the face, nose, and eyes;
- Fits a variety of head sizes;
- Can be disinfected; testing for different sterilization methods specific to COVID-19 are currently in-process for similar devices: see sterilization guide
The Face Shield design is mechanically sound and well-suited for 3D printing, however, all interested users are encouraged to consult with medical professionals to understand the effectiveness of the device.
WHAT IT’S NOT
These face shields are not designed to prevent airborne transmission of COVID-19.
While the collective efforts across the world for masks and valves designed to do just that are building confidence, we cannot say with any certainty that JuggerBot 3D will be producing devices like this in the near-term. We are following closely an on-going investigation led by the Youngstown Business Incubator and America Makes to identify the areas and applications where 3D printing can be applied.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER: The device should NOT be used as a replacement for conventional and approved Personal Protective Equipment (“PPE”). The device has not been industry tested and has not been NIOSH approved. The Manufacturer disclaims any warranty, express or implied, including those of quality, merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or infringement, and will not be liable for any losses or damages in connection with the use of the device.
We emphasize that this device has not been assessed for its comparative efficacy to prevent airborne infectious diseases compared with the standard-of-care.
No proof-of-concept testing was conducted to assess the device for its effectiveness.
USE AT YOUR OWN RISK.
UPDATE: MARCH 31, 2020
Production began at our facility in Youngstown, Ohio, working to fulfill requests for 95 Face Shields and counting. Delivery for the first units will go out as early as Wednesday.
UPDATE: APRIL 10, 2020
With production well underway, almost 50% of Face Shields requested have been delivered to nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities, and essential non-profit businesses from Youngstown to Cleveland. Total requests for Face Shields has exceeded 185, with the remainder expected to be produced and delivered in the next 10 days.
CONTACT US
To find out more about the shields, including lead times and availability for new orders, please send an email to dan@juggerbot3d.com.
ABOUT JUGGERBOT 3D
JuggerBot 3D is an additive manufacturing machine builder whose mission is to design and build the finest 3D printing solutions in the world while delivering technology that meets our customers’ criteria for performance, reliability and value. Our goal is to deliver innovative products that break down barriers and open doors to new possibilities for our clients.
[…] masks are not designed to stop the spread of the coronavirus, Juggerbot’s website notes, but can protect against droplet transmission through the eyes, nose and […]
[…] Updates regarding supply and additional devices will be provided at http://www.juggerbot3d.com/covid-19/. […]
[…] startup is doing its part by focusing its printing capacity on the production of face shields for protection against droplet transmission to the face, nose, and eyes. JuggerBot’s face shield […]