This Firm Uses 3D Printing To Make Ventilator From Snorkeling Mask

Harin - Mar 25, 2020

In a time like this, 3D-printing has proved its effectiveness again, acting as a savior. With the shortage of healthcare facilities and equipment during the

In a time like this, 3D-printing has proved its effectiveness again, acting as a savior. With the shortage of healthcare facilities and equipment during the COVID-19 outbreak, 3D-printing has been used to transform snorkeling masks into much-needed ventilators.

An Italian 3D printer firm called Isinnova has come forward with a unique idea. That is to 3D-print an adapter that can convert a snorkeling mask into a C-PAP mask. For those who don’t know, a C-PAP mask is being used for severe COVID-19 cases.

Isinnova Ventilator — The 3D-printed adapter can convert a snorkeling mask into a C-PAP mask used for severe patients.

The adapter idea is from Renato Favero, Gardone Valtrompia Hospital’s head physician. Favero then contacted Isinnova to carry out with the idea.

According to the company’s blog, Isinnova then got in touch with Decathlon, an “Easybreath” snorkeling maker. And Decathlon was willing to cooperate immediately. A 3D-printed prototype was made and found to be working correctly.

The company has released a DIY video showing how to turn a snorkeling mask into a ventilator. What you need for this is the 3D printed adapter from Isinnova. The design has been shared on the company website.

Although the mask is considered to be successful, a full-scale production hán’t been carried out yet. Patients who use the device will need to sign a declaration.

The outbreak started in China and has spread to over 160 countries around the world.