May 2, 2020
Description
This is a prototype face shield that Andrew Hong and myself have been working on over the past couple of weeks. Before I get started, I need to thank Gina and Laura for being heroes on the front line and providing us crucial feedback on our designs.
Inspired by the generosity of Prusa during this covid pandemic, we started printing items to give to health care professionals (spouses). Having loved ones on the front line, we got to see the quality of product that was being donated. While the donations were needed and extremely appreciated, there were many things that we felt we could improve upon in terms of design.
The top issues with current designs:
Plastic directly on your forehead is not comfortable to wear for 12 hour shifts. We tried dozens of designs available and Prusa's design was hands down the most comfortable, the problem is the rubber band was not.
They wanted the ability to flip the shield up instead of taking it completely off. Also the pivoting ability would also allow for adjustability depending on the mask you are wearing.
While searching for some type of elastic for the Prusa model, I wondered how much headgear was for a head mounted light. While searching eBay, I came across GoPro style head mounts at a great price and located within the US.
This is when the light went off and I started brainstorming designs. I tried to model in a way to maximize the build plate usage and improve print speeds. In terms of how the shield visor would attach, I initially was using a snap ring design because thicker material wouldn't stay on the Prusa. I wound up going back to the Prusa 3 Hole Punch style but slightly extending the pegs.
Since the head harness did not come with a thumb screw and we couldn't find anything relatively cheap, we decided to order M5 x 20 hex head screws and print an adapted. I was inspired by a design by Nils Kal but needed to change it so that the bolt mounted through the knob.
I have attached a DXF and SVG of the visor. We recommend .015"-.040" PETG or Polycarbonate. The overall dimensions are 11.5"x9" and the hole pattern is a standard US 3 hole punch (.270" holes with 4.25" spacing).
We are also thankful for our place of employment who has agreed to pay for the materials to manufacture 500 of these and supply to local hospitals.
Just like Prusa has stated, in regards to selling these, we don't want to see someone making these to sell for profit.
License:
Creative Commons - Attribution
Mhemling33
