Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 4) – A pair of Filipino inventors utilized 3D printing and snorkels to create ventilator masks for COVID-19 patients and health workers.
Arnel Andal and Edzel Orense shared on Monday they produced two kinds of ventilator masks which ensure the safety and protection of infected patients and medical staff.
“We made our own version wherein it is easy to print, cost less materials, and basically adapt local vent machines also,” said Orense.
The duo explained their innovation, Venti Masks, take four hours in the 3D printing process and six hours to assemble. While their own invention, the AO healthcare masks, require 10 hours to 3D print and seven hours for assembly.
Andal also revealed that four groups of 3D printing experts volunteered to help in the fitting of their modified ventilator masks.
“We have about 13 printers on hand. There are four groups doing the 3D printing. I myself and my family are doing the assembly of masks,” he added.
The two inventors emphasized they are working with the doctors of Philippine General Hospital in the creation of the ventilator masks, especially for the patients confined due to COVID-19.
“These masks have a non-invasive ventilation interface that allows the patient not to be intubated as long as possible,” said Andal.
Andal added the Venti Masks were already tested in PGH and they received positive feedback on its use.
“We hope to help quite exponentially in their chances of survival pre-intubation,” he told.
Orense mentioned the AO healthcare masks are designed for medical frontliners, which they used snorkels from Italy that are supplied by an international sports retail store.
The AO healthcare masks have larger visual clearance and comfort features such as an open port and a USB-powered fan.
“The fan will assist in removing carbon dioxide and to lessen moisture,” told Orense.
Andal and Orense assured the modified ventilator masks they created possess high standards for the benefit of the intended beneficiaries of their invention.
“We focus on quality and reliability and it is very important to focus on this task at hand,” said Andal.
As of the latest tally from the Department of Health this afternoon, the country now has 9,485 confirmed COVID-19 cases along with 623 deaths and 1,315 recoveries.
