There is an urgent need for more medical equipment and supplies for healthcare workers on the front line of the COVID-19, and as a result, businesses from various industries have shifted their production to supply these essential products. Notably, Amerian car manufacturer Ford recently announced via Twitter their plans to work with 3M, GE, and UAW to build respirators, ventilators, and face shields to combat the spread of the virus.
Ford announced the scaling production of Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PARPs) with 3M that uses existing parts from both partners. Additionally, the car manufacturer will leverage its 3D printing capabilities to build face shields — a piece of key protective equipment used by healthcare workers.
"We have had preliminary discussions with the U.S. and U.K. governments and looking into the feasibility," Ford spokesperson Rachel McCleery sated. "It’s vital that we all pull together to help the country weather this crisis and come out the other side stronger than ever."
Car-Branded Ventilator Productions
Ford is Working with 3M to Scale Production of Respirators
Trend Themes
1. Medical Equipment Production - COVID-19 has highlighted the need for businesses from various industries to shift their production to manufacture medical equipment and supplies for healthcare workers.
2. Collaboration Within Industries - Collaboration between companies within the same industry, such as Ford and 3M, can lead to scalable production of essential medical supplies during a time of crisis.
3. 3D Printing for Essential Products - Utilizing 3D printing capabilities to manufacture essential products such as face shields highlights the versatility of the technology in the production of medical supplies during a pandemic.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive Industry - The automotive industry has the potential to pivot their production during a crisis, such as COVID-19, and provide the necessary resources to address medical equipment shortages.
2. Healthcare Industry - The healthcare industry can benefit greatly from collaborations with companies in different industries, such as Ford and 3M, to quickly manufacture medical supplies and equipment during a time of crisis.
3. Manufacturing Industry - The manufacturing industry can explore the versatility of 3D printing technology in manufacturing essential products, including medical supplies, during pandemics and other crises.