At TLCD, we thrive on collaboration and creative problem solving. So when we heard about the lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) for health care workers, we were eager to partner in creative problem solving.
First, we recognized that tools we normally use to visualize design ideas, like our laser cutter and our 3D printer, could be put to use making PPE. Second, with the help of the AIA Redwood Empire, we connected with the Sonoma County Medical Association (SCMA), whose members include small medical practices that struggle to compete for PPE in the marketplace against large hospitals and government agencies. Third, we teamed up with MakerNexus, a non-profit based in Sunnyvale who provided a face shield design and who are coordinating a network of makers throughout the Bay Area to help produce the face shields.
George Klumb and Carl Servais headed TLCD’s efforts, with George coordinating with MakerNexus to get some of the parts that are being mass produced in Sunnyvale, and Carl bringing the 3D printer home to produce the remaining parts for assembling a complete face shield. The video above is a snapshot of the fabrication process.
On Friday, George and Carl delivered 60 face shields to Dr. Rajesh Ranadive, President of the SCMA. We are grateful for the small part we are able to play in helping our community’s health care workers stay safe, and we’re eager to create more shields!
Read Press Democrat Article dated May 20, 2020: Supplies of personal protective equipment still short for Sonoma County physicians
Many thanks to AIA Redwood Empire Allied Director and photographer, Tyler Chartier for still and video production.
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