UH-Hilo Computer Science Department 3-D printers working to help during pandemic

The UH-Hilo Computer Science Department is working to print prototype reusable face shields to be used during the COVID-19 pandemic. The 3-D printed frames are compatible with transparent sheet protectors that are used as the actual shields. An elastic band is used to secure the frame and shield to one’s head.

“There’s a lot of prototypes, a lot of samples of this online you can download. So we looked at all the different features and we picked out what are the most useful features of this frame and we made our own…We’re glad we could help. We’re a very isolated island and not many supplies get here right away. We have the 3-D equipment and surplus filaments, so we made a couple for the community.”

The 3-D printed frames are compatible with transparent sheet protectors that are used as the actual shields. An elastic band is used to secure the frame and shield to one’s head. Joining forces with students, Cristobal said with the time, equipment and materials available, stepping up to help was a no-brainer. In a whole day, the group can print about 25 face shields on its three printers. The department began printing about a month ago and so far, the department has given out 150 shields to the organizations with which it partnered.

Read the full story from Hawaii Tribune Herald here.