Qatar University’s College of Engineering (QU-CENG) announced that a research team of students and faculty members from the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering has developed designs using 3D printers for medical products manufactured in QU-CENG laboratories and workshops to benefit the medical service sector in Qatar.
The new designs include a ventilator used in hospitals as an integral part to provide the necessary treatment for patients with chest diseases, as well as the face mask for medical personnel and to reduce the chances of infection.
The designs also include door knobs that help opening doors without touching the knob to reduce the chances of infection. The design of the masks filters will be done in collaboration with Qatar University College of Medicine.
Protective masks are developed for doctors and the community against the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) using 3D printers. The new masks contain a delicate external electrical wiring network covered with a layer of epoxy for two reasons. The first is to close all pores that exist in the prints produced by the common type of 3D printers that use ABS plastic and the second reason for covering and fixing the battery-powered wire mesh to heat the outer part of the mask to a degree higher than 70C. This will reduce the possibility of the virus remaining alive on the surface of the mask for a relatively long period of time. Filter is not covered by autoclaving and must be replaced after each use while taking all safety and security measures during the change.
Dr Khaled Kamal Naji, dean at QU-CENG said: “These designs support all efforts to confront Covid-19, and to reduce its spread in co-ordination with other sectors. They are the result of research groups to find solutions for the challenges faced by various sectors in the country and provide a qualitative and distinctive addition.”
3D printed protective masks and Mechanical ventilator.
