3D technology is pushing the process of protecting healthcare workers into the future as they battle on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis.
The Advanced Manufacturing Program at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology is producing medical face shields that are manufactured using Harrisburg University's Fortus 450 Stratasys 3D printer.
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The machine can print approximately 12 face shields a day and the shields are donated to the Pennsylvania Health Care Association (PHCA) who then distributes them to caregivers in skilled nursing homes, assisted living residences, and personal care homes. The first batch of 3D-printed face shields are heading to Providence Place Senior Living in Dover, Pennsylvania.
Dr. Chip Shearrow of Harrisburg University is leading the effort.
"The visor takes about 19 hours and 45 minutes. We make 12 of them at a time," said Dr. Shearrow. After the visors leave the 3D manufacturing machine, they are put in a chemical bath so that the materials can be broken apart to make each individual shield. Dr. Shearrow said, "we are planning to get 80 of them out a week."
Dr. Shearrow is joined by his son, Charles Shearrow II, who is also an advanced manufacturing student. Dr. Shearrow's grandson, Matt Walters, who also attends the University is also taking part in the project. Both Charles and Matt volunteered to do the work, and several medical providers have already expressed interest in obtaining the shields.
"They're ecstatic. I've sent them pictures. We've shown them what they are and I've already had two nursing homes contact us and two of the hospitals are trying to figure out exactly what they want," said Dr. Shearrow. He added, "wish I had three or 4 more printers because we would be using them."
The 3D models were supplied by Stratasys, who has formed a coalition of 3D-printer owners to produce these shields.
“In the midst of the immense challenges faced by all Pennsylvanians, we’re grateful to put to work the innovation of our university and faculty to supply more face shields and provide support to health care workers,” said Dr. Eric Darr, president of Harrisburg University of Science and Technology. “With a severe shortage of protective personal equipment statewide, innovative solutions like these are critically necessary to support the caring healthcare professionals and their patients.”
“At a time when our Department of Health is recommending universal, around-the-clock masking for health care providers, the supply of masks and face shields is running dangerously low,” said Zach Shamberg, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Health Care Association. “But this partnership shows the true power of collaboration and innovation. Harrisburg University is taking an important and much-needed step to support our region’s caregivers in long-term care facilities who are risking it all to care for Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable residents. We cannot thank the university enough.”
Dr. Shearrow said if the public would like to donate in their effort, the laboratory could use donations of packing boxes, bubble wrap, and postage. But, he said Harrisburg University is providing the funding for the donation project.
For more information on the Advanced Manufacturing degree program at Harrisburg University, visit https://harrisburgu.edu/courses/advanced-manufacturing-bs/
