3D printed ventilator splitter for COVID-19 crisis hospitals

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  3D printed Ventilator adapter - tested in hospital

Inspiration

Hospitals needed to increase ventilator capacity so that a single ventilator could be used for 2 patients, but the necessary adapters were not available which would lead to using other critical supplies to rig a solution. Our ability to design and 3D print rapidly meant we could solve the need immediately.

What it does

The Adapter connects to a standard one-patient ventilator inspiration port and connects to standard ventilator tubing and accessories.

How we built it

We received hose samples, filters and BVA equipment from hospitals. Designed click-on and press-fit connector end to match and hoses and ventilator equipment. Used feedback from respiratory therapists and medical staff to inform the design.

Challenges we ran into

Designing a 3D print that needed to be functional, conform dimensionally, hold air pressure and print quickly (under 2 hours each) on standard FDM 3D printers while also meeting compliance with many ISO standards.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Having teammates that were directly connected to the center of need. Designing a solution fast enough to save people's lives. The first attempt at designing the click-on feature being airtight. 3D printing (50) splitter prototypes in less than 3 days.

What we learned

During emergencies and crisis situations, changes happen on an hour-to-hour basis and you have to be ready to iterate and adapt quickly. An efficient chain of communication is critical.

What's next for 3D printed ventilator adapter for COVID-19 crisis hospitals

Submitting for emergency use approval. Increasing production capacity Testing other materials such as polypropylene 3d printing filament Further R&D to return functionality lost when splitting ventilation.

Built With

• 3dprinting
• autodesk-fusion-360