An early draft of a 3D printable face mask in the 3D modelling program Maya.

With the onset and rapid spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) across the globe, it’s undoubtedly been a jarring and eerie time for many, with nearly every aspect of our daily lives having been upended. As we continue to adjust to this new reality of physical distancing and working from home, it’s now more important than ever that we come together to navigate through this uncertain chapter of history one day at a time, all while making our best efforts to slow the viral outbreak.

While it may take some time for us all to return to the normalcy we once knew, at Spyder3D^®, we believe it’s important to acknowledge and thank those who are taking this time to help mitigate the effects of the virus. There is an urgent need for medical supplies across the country, and it’s both exciting and inspiring to see recent technological advances such as 3D printing being utilized for such a good cause at a time when they’re needed most.

3D-printed face masks designed and printed by HP.

A brilliant Forbes article goes into detail about several efforts from companies including HP, a team of students at Charlotte Latin School, and organizations such as Matter Hackers and Formlabs who are all working to design, 3D print, and distribute medical supplies including face shields and masks for the brave medical professionals on the frontlines serving the needs of the afflicted.

A screenshot from the GoFundMe page started by the team at Charlotte Latin School.

More locally, we’re proud to share that a team of combined students from two of our very own partner schools, Diamond Bar and El Modena High are actively working on creating their own 3D printable masks and face shields at this time of writing. We’ll be sure to keep you updated here on their progress as time goes on.

An early mockup of a face shield in the 3D modelling program Autodesk Inventor, made by the DBHS mask team.

In times of uncertainty such as this, it’s crucial that we look to those who are working to make a difference as a beacon of hope and unity. We should let these efforts be a sign of strength and resilience, as they show the kindness humanity has to offer in times of crisis. While we may be physically divided, throughout the world we’re seeing acts of kindness such as these unite humanity together as one.

We’d like to give a special thank you to all the medical personnel, volunteers, essential workers, and all those working hard day and night to help lessen the effects of the virus and stop it from spreading further. Be sure to stay tuned to this page for more updates from the Diamond Bar mask team as they become available.

From all of us at Spyder3D^®, stay healthy, stay safe, stay home, and take care of each other.