Overview:
JPL designed and tested 3D printed respirators to help with the COVID-19 pandemic response. The designs and instructions for three different types of respirators, custom filters, and the resulting detailed test data is published here. These designs were tested according to many criteria, including fit checks, breathability, comfort, etc, and the test results are available. This upload is for one of the three respirator designs, the Performance Respirator, but check other JPL NIH postings or GitHub to view the other two designs. Note that these respirators are not certified by NIOSH or any medical institution, so use at your own risk.
These designs, instructions, STL files, and JPL's initial test data are released to Open Source with the hope that companies and individuals who have access to 3D printers, and who want to help, can print or create these for those who need them. We are purposefully not using materials in the normal medical supply chain as it should be kept free to create commercial and certified respirators. We expect and hope that these designs will be commented on and improved by everyone during and after this pandemic.
Performance Respirator Description:
The performance respirator design attempts to mimic the face seal geometry of commercial half-face respirators, such as those from 3M, to provide the highest level of fit performance. This is achieved through the use of a two piece assembly that consists of both a flexible and rigid element. The rigid element provides effective attachment for external filter cartridges while the flexible element has an internal lip to provide a conformal seal against the user’s face. The design also allows the front rigid section to be exchanged for compatibility with a wide range of different filter configurations while preserving the same face seal and mounting straps.
The performance respirator design can be easily configured for use with different filter types by swapping the front rigid element. Through swapping the front rigid element, the respirator can currently be arranged in two different configurations; with a front adapter compatible with COTS/custom filter cartridges or with a compact integrated custom filter.
- Filter Cartridge Mount - In this configuration the rigid section consists of a cover plate that slots into the flexible face seal and provides a filter cartridge attachment point. Currently, the design is configured to be compatible with 3M filter cartridges but the intent is to provide other options based on community needs.
- Integrated Custom Filter - In this configuration the front rigid section consists of two parts that contain an integrated pleated filter (total surface area of 98 cm2) and provides the most compact arrangement that can fit under a standard face shield. Intake and exhaust both pass through the filter medium and are routed to the sides of the respirator. Additional information on the custom integrated filter can be found here: https://github.com/nasa-jpl/COVID-19-respirators/wiki/Custom-Filters-to-fit-the-respirators.
For detailed instructions on the tools/equipment required, materials used, fabrication process, and assembly guide for the performance respirator design please visit https://github.com/nasa-jpl/COVID-19-respirators/wiki/JPL-Performance-Respirator.
