The Australian Army has teamed up with design technology company, 3D One Australia, to rapidly produce 400 face shields for frontline healthcare workers.
The Brisbane-based company used Army’s 3D printers from the 20th Regiment of the Royal Australian Artillery (20 RAA) to produce the face shields for medical staff in Brisbane.
Defence Minister Linda Reynolds said the Regiment produced the headband component of the face shield, while 3D One Australia completed the manufacture and sanitisation to Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) standards, and distributed the face shields to medical agencies as needed.
“Defence is playing a vital role in supporting Australia’s response to COVID-19,” Minister Reynolds continued.
“This initiative is not only boosting the supply of face shields in Queensland and expanding industry capability, but also demonstrates how Defence can readily adopt and adapt new technologies.”
Officer Commanding, Combat Service Support Battery of 20 RAA Major Matthew Chapman said his unit typically uses 3D technology to maintain Army’s Unmanned Aerial Systems.
“The Army is an agile force and our 20th Regiment has a strong presence in the local Brisbane community,” Major Chapman said.
“The Regiment quickly came on board with 3D One’s project following the company’s crowdsourcing callout last month to help manufacture the face shield frames.”
