Özet:

Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, it has been observed that some equipment, such as the protective face shields used by healthcare professionals and those working in unsafe conditions, are not sufficient and difficult to obtain in many countries. 3D printing technology had a crucial role in providing solutions to many medical problems worldwide during this period. This technology has mainly helped overcome the lack of those medical and personal protective equipment. Trainees who participated before in the ‘3D Modeling and Printer Usage Trainings’ by TİKA in 12 countries, started the process of producing shields using the 3D printer, supplies and equipment provided by the TİKA Presidency in their countries. In this framework, and in order to meet the needs of these 12 countries within the shortest time, a functional face shield with less printing time was prepared for printing using slicing software, and a G.Code files were sent to the relevant countries. In addition, printers, spare parts and consumables were sent to 9 countries. In 12 countries including Uganda, Libya, Kyrgyzstan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, a total of 7 thousand face protection visors were produced in a period of 2 months. The design features, printing time and tools required for assembly were evaluated. The proposed designs were produced using 3D printing technology, and this was practically decisive in the management of the COVID-19 pandemic. These face shields were delivered to the related countries' hospitals and similar institutions affiliated to the Ministry of Health to be given to healthcare workers who struggle with COVID-19, and contributed to their fight against the virus. As a result of that, a lot of attention was paid and the institutions and individuals who produced the equipment were thanked by the official authorities of the relevant countries and reported by the local media.

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