Colorado artist 3D prints ear guards to help medical workers

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Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design

May 20, 2020, 10:02 ET

LAKEWOOD, Colo., May 20, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- As COVID-19 continues to change the world, healthcare workers have become the heroes we need during this time. Healthcare workers are wearing layers upon layers of gear to ensure that they are protecting themselves, patients, and others when providing care. Workers are using face masks that when worn for extended periods of time can dig into the skin, head, and ears, often causing marks, discomfort, and sometimes even bruising. Ian Southwell from RMCAD knew something had to be done to help.

Southwell's idea for 3D printed ear guards to accompany medical masks came from a combination of peers, social media groups in the 3D printing space, and a Boy Scout Quinn Callander, who crafted a model for the guards. Ian started 3D printing ear guards with grooved "security straps" to ensure masks aren't rubbing on the face of medical workers all day. The guards are printed in 20 minutes and made from PLA plastic, a polymer made from renewable resources.

The hope is that these ear guards relieve some of the physical stress of wearing masks that make direct contact with the ears and face. Southwell stated, "the specialists have enough stress in their work environment, if we can help relieve a little of that stress, then we should help." After printing is complete, the guards are being dropped off in bulk at RMCAD, and then passed along to someone who distributes them to where they are needed and being requested. This could include hospitals, doctors' offices, nursing homes, and anywhere that healthcare workers would benefit from this piece.

Knowing how to support a cause with so much uncertainty can often be challenging. Ian expressed to us, "this sort of experience rallies around the Unknown. So many times we walk into a learning environment because we want to know more. What better way to learn than to blaze new trails and improve as we go?"

Now more than ever, it's important to give back and contribute in any way possible. The resilience of the community and bright ideas of artists and designers so closely tied to it are going to be what helps everyone push through this challenging time.

To get involved with RMCAD's efforts, and media inquiries, please contact Daron Rodriguez, Senior Vice President of Marketing at [email protected] and Chris Daley, Digital Content Manager at [email protected].

SOURCE Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design