Combating coronavirus: UAE varsity 3D-prints over 1,000 face mask clips for hospitals

Using tech to support health workers in the fight against Covid-19, a team of engineers at Abu Dhabi University (ADU) has 3D-printed more than 1,000 face mask clips in just two days.
And for their next project, they would to use the same 3D-printing technology to produce a hundred face shields for hospitals, the ADU's College of Engineering (COE) said on Sunday.
The university has successfully developed its first face shield prototype, modifying the design to make it more comfortable for the wearer.
Both the clips and face shields were created through laser-cutting techniques and 3D printers. The team also worked on modifying a door handle attachment to prevent direct contact with the surface.
Professor Waqar Ahmad, chancellor of ADU, said: "As part of our efforts to contribute to the healthcare community amidst the current situation, ADU is proud to provide hospitals in Abu Dhabi with the clips for face masks.
"Using resources available within our facilities, and the expertise of our resident faculty members and teaching assistance, we have been able to use advanced technology to support the local healthcare sector."
Dr Hamdi Sheibani, dean of the College of Engineering, commented: "We were successful in creating the prototype using machinery in our laboratory, which we have also embedded in our curriculum for students to use as part of developing their practical skills."
Parts used in the project were manufactured by ADU's faculty members, including Abid Abdul Azeez, a teaching assistant specialising in Mechanical Engineering, and Ahmed Al Awawdah, a teaching assistant specialising in architecture, under the supervision of Dr Mohammad Alkhedher, chair of the mechanical engineering department, and Dr Magdy Ibrahim, the chair of the architecture and interior design department.
The university vowed to continue helping out and developing face shields based on the demand from local hospitals and clinics.
ismail@khaleejtimes.com 

• Abu Dhabi

Ismail Sebugwaawo

ismail@khaleejtimes.com