Read and ponder this thread before trying the mask

DoD America Makes Manufacturing Network has created a hub for testing 3D Printed PPE using NIH and FDA standards and creating a repository for designs, manufacturers, and health care suppliers. Site just went live today.

If you have a design or idea, now is your shot...

https://www.americamakes.us/statement-on-covid-19/?utm_source=NCDMM+Distribution+List&utm_campaign=c468c7ea90-PR-AM_COVID+Response+%2B+Design30%2F3%2F20+8%3A42+AM&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_333d201fe1-c468c7ea90-164471609

Also planning to start a Brazos Valley 3D Manufacturing Network will post the link soon.

We may need some 3D Printed PPE, here, soon.

Here is a list of NIH approved 3D Printed PPE.

https://3dprint.nih.gov/collections/covid-19-response

I'm sure these kind of ideas are great for morale and feeling of accomplishing something for the cause, but wouldn't it be more efficient if instead of everyone buying their own low cost printer, learning it, spending time getting it working a their home, that people just donate money to a singular entity that has the know how, the capacity and resources to put the $ to much more efficient use? Like someone that has a warehouse where they can set up tons of printers and create more of an assembly line of automation?

You don't even need many workers, the time consuming part is the actual printing. You just need one or two people to go around and collect them as they are completed and to refill the printers.

I assumed this is directed at people that already have printers? Maybe I'm wrong, but 3D printing is a pretty big, widespread hobby at this point. I have one, wouldn't mind firing it up for some PPE if I knew it could be used and I wasn't wasting filament.

Texaggie7nine said:

---

I'm sure these kind of ideas are great for morale and feeling of accomplishing something for the cause, but wouldn't it be more efficient if instead of everyone buying their own low cost printer, learning it, spending time getting it working a their home, that people just donate money to a singular entity that has the know how, the capacity and resources to put the $ to much more efficient use? Like someone that has a warehouse where they can set up tons of printers and create more of an assembly line of automation?

You don't even need many workers, the time consuming part is the actual printing. You just need one or two people to go around and collect them as they are completed and to refill the printers.

---

That is a great idea, and I plan to do something like this in the Brazos Valley.

Currently, I am starting a group called Brazos Valley 3D Manufacturing Network where we can utilize printers in our area...if necessary.

If enough demand is created , I am leaning to a centralized model that would require some capital costs, but could be up and running in a month...I think.

If you already have one and have experience, have at it. But the OP asked what printers are recommended, ect as if there are people looking to just now start getting into this for this purpose.

scottimus said:

---

Texaggie7nine said:

---

I'm sure these kind of ideas are great for morale and feeling of accomplishing something for the cause, but wouldn't it be more efficient if instead of everyone buying their own low cost printer, learning it, spending time getting it working a their home, that people just donate money to a singular entity that has the know how, the capacity and resources to put the $ to much more efficient use? Like someone that has a warehouse where they can set up tons of printers and create more of an assembly line of automation?

You don't even need many workers, the time consuming part is the actual printing. You just need one or two people to go around and collect them as they are completed and to refill the printers.

---

That is a great idea, and I plan to do something like this in the Brazos Valley.

Currently, I am starting a group called Brazos Valley 3D Manufacturing Network where we can utilize printers in our area...if necessary.

If enough demand is created , I am leaning to a centralized model that would require some capital costs, but could be up and running in a month...I think.

---

This is actually something that I think all communities need to start doing. Setting up networks of businesses and people with access and knowledge of 3D printing who have contingency plans on how to aggregate all the resources for singular causes in cases of emergency.

Oh, you are correct, I should have read more carefully instead of assuming. I've just seen a lot of these "print PPE" type posts elsewhere that assumed the person was already a printer.

I plan to print shields if anyone in my area ends up accepting them. I haven't heard much as of yet.

Here is a FB group I made for anyone with a printer.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/2486097304989105/

I am part of a National DoD funded Additive Manufacturing group that is recruiting manufacturers/designers for PPE production now.

If we can get enough growth, I can submit this network as a manufacturer organization.

Any other recommendations on spreading this group in the Texas area?

I can't really think of any effective way on getting the word out other than targeted social media advertising.

Righ. I agree.