Protecting those who face the virus head-on
Over the past few months, a virus has swept across the globe, causing countries to shut down and keeping citizens in place. The only people allowed to work are essential workers, these citizens are continuously putting their lives at risk. At the front line, the most exposed, are our doctors and nurses. We need them, and yet we are lacking ways to keep them safe.
As technology has grown and businesses have shut down, a few tech companies have decided they can actually use this advanced equipment to help the spread of COVID-19. How? They can use 3D laser scanning lasers and printers to print masks. These are not just any masks, they are fully customized, sustainable, and less touched by other humans.
By taking out human touch, companies are helping prevent the spread of unwanted germs and providing affordable protective gear to hospitals around local areas. Many companies have changed around their entire workspace and production line to create protective equipment for doctors and nurses.
Why 3D laser scanning is an excellent way to produce hospital products
Creating a product that is wearable and comfortable to use has been the biggest goal in making this equipment. It is much easier to make a prop than it is to make something usable. Teams of researchers have gone about this by using structured lights to shine over the object and warp them to fit whichever object is being shined on.
This is one of the best ways to produce a customized face mask without having two people come in close contact. This not only helps the producers stay safe, but it also helps produce products that will create safety nets for our hospital and essential workers. Before any state or country opens back up, everyone wants to be sure they have enough personal protection equipment to help prevent the spread of this virus that has torched our world.
How 3D laser scanning works
This technology was initially created in the 1960s but wasn’t entirely accepted or used until the late 1990s. Since then, it has grown and advanced, it originally took physical objects collected data through giant chunky cameras and produced an image in 2D. Now it can scan, create, and print speedily.
3D laser scanning takes pictures with a laser at a rapid pace collecting information on an object. It collects every microscopic detail that may not typically be captured otherwise. Once the data is collected, it is sent to the cloud, where it is stored forever. After that, it is sent to an editing system, where a user can design and create based on the information received. From there, it can be 3D printed for use. Creating one of the best ways to make and produce medical gear in a sanitary way.
Final thoughts
This virus has caused us to pause in our world, and yet our doctors are battling this every day head-on with very little protective gear. Technology companies have realized they can help and more have stepped up to the plate. Once more companies get on board, there will be more protective gear being produced.
