Defence and industry join forces to rapidly produce face shields

The Australian Army has joined forces with a Brisbane-based company to rapidly produce 400 face shields for frontline healthcare workers. 

Design technology company, 3D One Australia, 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.

Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC said this is another example of Defence and Australia’s local manufacturing industry working together to support the Government’s response to COVID-19.

“Defence is playing a vital role in supporting Australia’s response to COVID-19,” Minister Reynolds said.

“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.”

The Regiment produced the headband component of the face shield, while 3D One Australia provided filament, assembling and distribution of the shields.

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.”

The frames were provided to 3D One who completed the manufacture and sanitisation of the full face shields to Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) standards, and distributed to medical agencies as needed.

Imagery available at: http://images.defence.gov.au/S20201667