MSU Engineering Institute Producing Face Shields

The Murray State University Institute of Engineering is producing and donating face shield apparatuses as part of its response to the novel coronavirus health crisis.

Engineering Graphics and Design program coordinator Dr. Rudy Ottway and student worker Clay Doron, a junior majoring in the program, are using 3D printers and an open-source 3D computer aided drafting model to produce face shield headbands. Coupled with a snapped-on plastic shield and surgical mask, this solution offers vital protection to area healthcare workers for little cost.

“We’re grateful for the work of Murray State and the Institute of Engineering to help us confront this pandemic,” said Murray Calloway County Hospital Vice President for Institutional Development, Keith Travis. “This effort helps us replenish our reserves and adapt to this ever-changing situation, all while protecting our doctors, nurses and staff as they interact with patients.”

“We had everything we needed in personal protective equipment supplies from the health department except for the important face shields,” said Dr. Bob Hughes, chief medical officer of Murray State University Health Services. “Murray State University stepped up and provided those when we needed them most. We cannot thank them enough at this very important time for being there for us. We are all in this together.”

“The Institute of Engineering is honored to donate this gear to those who are in need,” said Dr. Danny Claiborne, chair of the Institute of Engineering. “We’re truly all in this together, and we want to support our community any way we can. Typically, these shields can run as much as $30 per unit, and 3D printing allows us to produce them for less than a dollar each.”

"I am very proud of our faculty, staff and students in the Institute of Engineering who have responded to the needs of our local medical providers,” said Murray State President Dr. Bob Jackson. “There is a tremendous shortage of personal protective equipment and we are pleased to do our part during this period of uncertainty."

The Institute expects to have 300 completed apparatuses by early next week.