In rapid response to the shortage of protective medical masks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, EWI has developed an easy-to-produce, compliant mask prototype. The Vacuum Formed Stop-gap Face Mask design was made available to the public and free via open source. Download the design, model, and specs at the NIH 3D Print Exchange.
The mask prototype was developed and tested over a six-day period by EWI in partnership with Building
Momentum of Alexandria, Virginia. The advantages of the design include:
- Rapid scalability – A single production vacuum forming system can manufacture 1,000 mask shells in four hours at less than $0.50 per shell
- Comfortable, form-fitting pattern – Vacuum forming can readily form thin, flexible materials that conform well to the face.
- Reusability – The filter is easily replaceable, and the mask shells are re-usable lowering the cost per day.
- Flexible and configurable design – Multiple designs are available and modifiable; mask repair can be done in the field with readily available items.
Learn more about EWI’s rapid prototyping and technology development services.