YOUBREATH - Mass-customized respiratory masks

A customized 3D printed protective face-mask powered by fab labs and makers, with certified filtering capacities and a bespoke template based on AR.

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IMPACT POTENTIAL

The importance of protecting the respiratory system, ensuring the perfect fit of the masks to the face, is a problem which has not yet been solved in the covid19 emergency. Youbreath is a project that proposes a new ergonomic and customized product, which can be achievable thanks to an innovative automated design method and a decentralized production system. Thanks to these assumptions, Youbreath can be scaled to quickly meet the requirements of millions of people.

TECHNICAL COMPLEXITY & NOVELTY

Youbreath meets the customization needs of the product by using cutting-edge technologies, combined and operated through an online platform. The user scans his or her face using a specific app, chooses the type of filter (FFP2 or FFP3) and customizes the visual appearance. The code that defines the geometry of the mask is automatically generated through artificial intelligence algorithms and parametric processes. The app directs the users to the printing centers closest to their location and manages the B2C relationship. The platform allows Makers, Fablabs, and specialized companies to receive all the technical information useful to streamline the manufacturing process.

PROTOTYPE COMPLETION

During the EUvsVIRUS hackathon, the prototype design was developed using computational algorithms and two of the most complex elements were 3D printed: the rigid frame and the elastic membrane. The rigid frame is coupled to the membrane by a snap-joint system. The elastic membrane was printed with FLEX filament and is ergonomically shaped and adheres well to the user’s face (approx. printing time 3 hours). The rigid frame was printed in PLA and ensures a perfect air-tight seal between the filter and the elastic membrane (approx. printing time: 4 hours). The scanning technology has been tested and the most relevant features of the app have been outlined. The algorithm that controls the product customization can be scaled to meet high production demands. Filter manufacturers have been consulted for the production of covid-19 certified filters and melt-blown tests were carried out successfully. Technologically advanced companies will be recommended to use robots equipped with multi-material extruders in order to speed up 3D printing processes. 3D printing machines capable of reducing production times by more than one order of magnitude are currently being tested.

BUSINESS PLAN

The web-based platform serves as a general contractor, allowing users to select their custom masks and choose the manufacturing location. The orders are placed and processed on the same platform, offering users the opportunity to review the quality of the services provided triggering a virtuous circle. The project technology is based on decentralized production and automated design which are widespread and available as well as economically and socially sustainable. The project team is made up of experts in the most advanced disciplines: algorithmic design, digital fabrication, design and manufacturing of machinery and materials, marketing and communication.

Built With

  • algorithmic-design
  • artificial-intelligence
  • robotic-fabrication
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Updates

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For manufacturers A manufacturer can buy a kit for his mask, or apply for production within a "production track". Each track, dedicated to a specific component of the mask, will obtain different production slots so that there is always an alignment to avoid excess or lack of production. Based on the requests, slots will be "opened" to all manufacturer that can join. The slot will be ready to go when the participants' total production potential wold be covered. A production surplus (indicative max 10%) will be kept to cover any problems of one or more producers without interrupting the production chain. Participation in the slots will be tied to a first-come, first-served approach, the platform will notify by email or notify producers every time a slot is opened. The manufacturer will ship its products to a dedicated (possibly national / local) wharehouse. Here the various components will be joined to assemble the kit and send them to end users). This step is fundamental for the quantity and quality of the products as well as for the responsibility of the individual producers on the dynamics of the shipment and control / feedback.

The online platform The online platform will serve as a repository of 2D and 3D files for self-production, but also a market for manufacturers who need filament of materials, elastic bands etc. From the platform it will also be possible to use 3D facial mapping for the production of the customized model to be printed and cut out. The platform will also be a marketplace for end users who can purchase the complete kit produced by the various manufacturers. The kits: A) the kit for the "manufacturers" includes 3D printing files (opensource and free), filament of material, external components, digital model to print your own silhouette as a template for silicone. The kits will be "open" and customizable for items and quantities directly by the buyer. B) the kit for "users" will instead include all the components ready to be assembled. To meet the needs of the various types (users and superusers), ready-made templates to cut out the silicone sheet (classified by size) will be included in the kit. That way, if you don't have a printer or face mapping device, you can still do it.

Involvement of FABLAB Fab lab become a communicative and aggregating vehicle as they involve local producers to cover the various production slots. On the marketplace you can also find 3D printers to be able to actively participate in the project. Each user who registers as "producer" will receive a reference fab lab that will take care of supporting "the concrete" the producer. The platform will collect instructions, guidelines and FAQs to assist independent makers to participate. In this way also the FabLab will participate in visibility and participation.

Business model The marketplace is the only operating hub and will operate as a general contractor, wholesaler and retail seller to control B2C price directly. Everything need to pass through the platform to control quality, quantity and avoid speculation.

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