A 3D printed component that turns a scuba mask into a reusable N95.

Due to COVID, there was a global shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE), especially in the North Texas area. This meant providers were left exposed to the risks of the coronavirus, as front-line workers had to constantly reuse their one-use N95 masks. This significantly increased their risk of catching the virus.

Dr. Peter Baek, head anesthesiologist at a Tier 1 Trauma Center, and Invene partnered to solve this problem. Together, they developed a 3D printed component that turns a scuba mask into a reusable N95. Dr. Baek provided the clinical experience while Invene provided the technical expertise.

This 3D printed component had to adhere to the safety standards set by the CDC. They had to pass the hospital fit test, otherwise, they would not protect the provider from the coronavirus. Hospital administrators had to be convinced of the solution as they were worried about potential liability issues. These 3D printed parts had to be manufactured efficiently as the demand was overwhelming.