The COVID-10 pandemic is seeing many hospitals run out of ventilators to treat patients, which is seeing designers create solutions like the 'Charlotte Valve' to help fill the shortage. The 3D-printed device works by being retrofitted onto a Decathlon scuba mask to instantly transform it into a ventilator that can be paired with wall-mounted oxygen distributors in hospitals. The valve has been patented by creators Isinnova S.R.L. to prevent it from being commercially produced and sold to keep it accessible for all.
The 'Charlotte Valve' is being encouraged by the designers to be 3D-printed by any designers who have resources to spare to help support healthcare endeavors and prevent those who need a ventilator to go without. The file has been made available along with instructions here.
Scuba Mask Ventilator Hacks
The 'Charlotte Valve' Transforms Snorkeling Masks into Ventilators
Trend Themes
1. Ventilator Shortage - COVID-19 pandemic has increased the demand for ventilators. Designers are creating innovative solutions like the 'Charlotte Valve'.
2. 3D Printing - Designers are utilizing 3D printing technology to create the 'Charlotte Valve'.
3. Medical Device Hacks - Designers are hacking snorkeling masks and other medical devices to create innovative solutions to address the shortage of medical equipment.
Industry Implications
1. Healthcare - The 'Charlotte Valve' offers an innovative solution to the ventilator shortage crisis that hospitals are currently facing.
2. 3D Printing - The ability to 3D print the 'Charlotte Valve' provides a disruptive innovation opportunity in the medical device industry.
3. Outdoor & Sports Gear - The 'Charlotte Valve' demonstrates the potential for innovative solutions in the outdoor and sports gear industry to be utilized by healthcare professionals in emergencies.