Ford manufacturers, in partnership with Lasko, developed a low-cost, anti-COVID solution in the form of the Scrappy Filtration kit. The design for the fan-powered filtration machine combines an air filter of MERV 13 or higher and a box fan, which are stacked on top of each other and set up within a cardboard box foundational structure. The simplistic design and easy assembly make this air filter accessible to communities without significant social resources.
Looking to do their part during the pandemic, Ford and Lasko donated 20,000 Scrappy Filtration units to low-income communities. Ford made the design template available for public use. The Scrappy Filtration system was born out of research on the efficacy of air filtration in poorly ventilated spaces like small classrooms and crowded workplaces to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
Low-Cost Anti-COVID Filters
Ford Developed Scrappy Filtration as a Cost-Saving Anti-COVID Measure
Trend Themes
1. Low-cost Filtration Solutions - The success of the Scrappy Filtration kit shows consumer appetite for low-cost filtration systems that are easy to assemble and use.
2. Community-focused Solutions - The Scrappy Filtration kit presents a community-focused approach to addressing public health issues and may inspire further initiatives that prioritize accessibility for low-income populations.
3. DIY Solutions - The Scrappy Filtration kit's open design template availability promotes a DIY mindset, which could lead to a rise in similar affordable and accessible community products developed in-house.
Industry Implications
1. Air Filtration - Air filtration companies could find disruptive opportunities with the development of low-cost and easy-to-assemble filtration systems like the Scrappy Filtration kit.
2. Automotive - Automotive companies could explore community-driven products like the Scrappy Filtration kit as a means of giving back while promoting the accessibility of their products.
3. Non-profit - Non-profit organizations could seek partnerships with companies like Ford and Lasko to create additional community-driven products with cost-effective solutions and accessible designs for low-income communities.