As NZ went into lockdown in March 2020 the ShieldsUp initiative sprung into action. Makers from around NZ were united (while isolated) to meet the PPE needs of frontline medical workers.
Tim Carr (one of the founders of TAPlab and owner of MindKits) first started the call to bring together individuals and businesses across the country who could contribute to manufacturing. Andrew Dixon from TAPlab was also one of the key organisers for the group.
A face shield design from Prusa Printing was suggested. Within hours people were 3D printing them from their homes. Within a couple of days ShieldsUp were processing over 10,000 orders, had set up production networks, logistics networks and had begun crowdfunding.
The crowdfunding and volunteer response was phenomenal, people just wanted to help. The funds were used to provide makers with a refund for their material costs, as well as fund all the logistical aspects of distribution. Any surplus funding will be donated back to families affected by the impacts of COVID-19.
ShieldsUp delivered 18,000 face shields across the country in an unprecedented time of crisis.
As NZ came out of lockdown and commercial manufacturers were able to meet the needs of frontline workers ShieldsUp decided their work was done. They stopped taking orders and finished up.
The incredible stats* are:
- Number of face shields delivered: 18,878
- Number of clients: 1413
- ~510kg of filament was used for 3D printing
- 254 people were actively involved in the project
- Amount donated through givealittle: $109,983
How TAPlab helped:
- Auckland Council were able to grant access to TAPlab during lockdown so that the two 3D printers could be taken home by our members to contribute to the project.
- As a registered charity TAPlab was able to accept the donations from givealittle and distribute the payments as required.
- Some of our members already owned their own 3D printers and were able to contribute to the manufacturing.
The face shield design
The shields are laser cut clear PVC or PET plastic, with holes to mount onto the frame. The frame is 3D printed, it fits securely on the head and leaves enough space for people who wear glasses. It’s held in place with an elastic band.
*Stats taken 12/06/2020 from https://beinerf.github.io/; donation amount from givealitte