Congratulations to both teams at Engineers Without Borders Ireland and eConcepts for collaborating on some projects in response to COVID-19.
In light of the recent global and local challenges that face us with COVID-19, eTownz as part of eConcepts are currently launching the Community Research Alliance, an arm of their company to develop ideas and simple tools and supports specifically targeting communities. eTownz is a Dublin based digital RnD company specialising in developing tools for the community / civil sector. They invite individuals or organisations to browse their list of project ideas on their website and if there is anything you can do to help they will add you to an online work-space where the project can be quickly developed and prototyped. eTownz has many connections with the community sector in Ireland at local and national umbrella bodies. If useful tools are created they can use their connections to quickly get them out to people online.
Engineers Without Borders Ireland are partnering with eTownz to offer technical assistance where relevant and testing of 3D printed products. They are using their network of makers, designers and development organisations to facilitate global application of designs.
Engineers Without Borders Ireland are also assisting Field Ready with rapid prototyping, testing and manufacturing of COVID19 response designs for low/middle income countries. Field Ready are an International NGO who work with local communities using 3D printed technology to manufacture supplies so that people have what they need, when and where they need it. Field Ready has completed stage 1 of the design process to select a list of 20 potential COVID-19 response designs and are ready for further testing. These range from face shields to UV sterilization boxes to vacuum mask.
They need designers and manufacturers across Ireland to join their Rapid Design Network to manufacture and test the prototypes. If you think you can be of assistance, or have resources that you would like to contribute please get in touch through info@ewb-ireland.org.
It’s great to see people come together to do fantastic work in these trying times.