【3D Printing News】Troubled by epidemic prevention during commute? Make your own protective shield!
Since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), and after the Qingming holiday, commuters are in a state of panic. Following our previous sharing of "Five Anti-epidemic Gadgets", we immediately tested two self-made protective face shields! Whether you use a household or industrial 3D printer, you can make one to commute safely! See the full test here, with free download links at the end!
The protective face shield consists of two main parts:
1. 3D printed frame and fasteners
2. Transparent protective sheet (with dimension lines)
We used the hobbyist-grade Original Prusa i3 MK3S and the industrial-grade Ultimaker S5 Pro Bundle 3D printer to make both face shields, and both were tested and found to be usable!
(The Original Prusa i3 MK3S 3D printer paired with Coke Red PLA filament, to combat the virus in a stylish and bold way.)
The one made with the Ultimaker 3D printer used original orange PLA filament. Even before removing the frame, the difference in detail is noticeable.
(This 3D printed protective face shield has a row of 1 cm wide ventilation holes where it touches the forehead, which is very user-friendly.)
The surface texture of the two 3D protective structures differs slightly. The text on the Ultimaker orange face shield is clearer, the texture is finer, and there are almost no layer deviations. The stringing on the Prusa red face shield is also relatively more obvious; however, this does not affect its function at all. Considering the cost-effectiveness of the Prusa, which is less than 40,000 NTD, the finished product is still quite excellent!
As for the transparent isolation sheet of the face shield, we directly used PETG sheets from Vaquform DT2 and cut the holes using a FLUX beambox laser cutter. If you don't have PETG, you can also use transparent sheets from a regular stationery store! (Click here to see "FLUX Laser Cutter" usage tutorial)
(With a laser cutter, you can get a properly sized 3D face shield isolation sheet in just 1 minute. If you don't have a laser cutter, you can print and cut it by hand, or use the A4 version at the end of the article.)
Once these two components are finished, simply assemble them. Insert the holes of the transparent sheet into the 3D printed frame, and then insert the fasteners at the bottom!
Finally, tie elastic bands to both sides of the 3D printed frame to complete it. The fasteners at the bottom prevent the transparent sheet from spreading outwards, providing safer protection. European and American medical systems have also produced and used these in large quantities to make up for medical resource shortages.
After the 3DMart colleagues actually wore the 3D protective face shield, regardless of their height or build, the size fit everyone's head perfectly, and it was highly praised!
Another simple version only requires a 3D printed frame and an A4-sized transparent sheet inserted into the slot. No need to cut holes or use any elastic bands. It can also be worn directly on the head like a headband, which is very convenient for short commutes!
3DMart colleagues personally tried on the simple version of the protective face shield, and it is very light and suitable for commuting. Come and try it!
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread and global medical resources are scarce, if you have a 3D printer, join us in producing epidemic prevention supplies to protect yourself or contribute to the world!