adidas and Carbon are rapidly producing 3D-printed face shields during the global COVID-19 pandemic. Carbon is currently producing more than 18,000 face shields a week, after shifting all manufacturing at its California facilities last month to focus on developing medical supplies for first responders and healthcare professionals.
Since 2017, adidas and Carbon have used open source collaboration to create high-performance, 3D-printed footwear, and together they’re redirecting their efforts to aid in the global health crisis.
3D-printed lattice structures can dramatically reduce material usage, speed print times, and improve comfort and performance for both patients and healthcare workers.
adidas is supporting Carbon’s efforts to donate the face shields to U.S. healthcare organisations, first responders and underserved communities that have the greatest need and don’t have access to adequate supply.
Additionally, Carbon has shared print files with its entire global network so anyone with access to a Carbon printer and material is able to create face shields and address needs in their local area.
In addition to its work with Carbon, adidas continues to support those in need around the world during the pandemic. adidas has made donations to the World Health Organisation, the China Youth Development Foundation, hospitals in South Korea and the Red Cross. More relief efforts are in the works.
