Adidas has collaborated with technology company Carbon to produce 3D-printed face shields in support of Covid-19.
Adidas and Carbon have teamed up to produce 3D printed face shields
Adidas and Carbon first joined forces to reimagine high-performance footwear using 3D printing technology and now the two have come together to redirect efforts to aid the global health crisis.
Using the same material co-created for the 4D midsoles, the companies have teamed up to produce 3D-printed face shields to support US healthcare organisations, first responders and underserved communities that have the greatest need and don’t have access to adequate supplies.
The ambition behind using the highly elastic, tear-resistant material called elastomeric polyurethane, typically used in Adidas 4D midsoles, is to create a piece of personal protective equipment (PPE) that can be sanitised and reused, with the hopes of eliminating waste during a time of scarcity.
Additionally, the material provides a more comfortable alternative to support those on the frontline as they work long hours, continuing to risk their lives to save others.
The ambition is to create PPE that can be sanitised and reused
Through Adidas’ support and the quick production turnaround that 3D printing enables, Carbon has been able to scale production from 18,000 face shields a week to upwards of 50,000.
To scale even further, Carbon is also sharing print files with its entire global network so anyone with access to a Carbon printer and material will be able to create face shields to address needs in their local areas.
Organisations in need can submit a request at www.carbon3d.com/covid19 or by email to covid19@carbon3d.com. The team says it will respond to as many requests as possible, prioritising those areas that have the most severe shortages and greatest need.
“The collaboration with Carbon is one of several steps we have taken to support Covid-19 relief efforts, having previously made donations to the World Health Organisation, the China Youth Development Foundation, hospitals in South Korea and the Red Cross,” says Adidas.
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