Medical ventilators and more
A bit of a different approach. Manufacturers of non-medical equipment
The right amount of equipment can be produced by other manufacturing enterprises.
Probably need old models. Why? Other manufactures are not specialized in this kind of equipment. Many modern technical and technological solutions on their basis will be difficult and long to implement. Although a lot of medical equipment was developed decades ago and has passed several generations.
In such cases, technical and technological documentation is needed. I will separate the manuals, various repair and maintenance instructions, and training materials.
Where can I get it?
- Ask the manufacturers' companies. They can store documentation for older models;
- Old companies. The documents could have been saved somewhere;
- Organizations (both private and government) that certify and approve equipment. In many countries, they require complete documentation for a decision;
- Customs
- The services for export/import control;
- Some documentation may be available from companies providing equipment maintenance and repair;
- Some information may be in old patents;
- In libraries and archives.
Commercial and law aspects of the problem
Medical equipment requires serious testing and certification. This is usually a slow process. That is before you start doing anything, it is better to coordinate the procedures with local regulatory offices. They will explain many of the details, etc. Perhaps they will agree on a simplified procedure. For example, it works in the current situation and then the equipment is taken out of service before all the procedures have been completed.
It is possible to agree with owners of intellectual property on various licensing, support and sales options afterward.
Yes, it is understandable that in such situations even laws are on the side of those who do (see the law concept of necessity), but people are much more likely to be contractual when they understand that they too will benefit.
Training
A very important aspect. All medical equipment works with people. And if it's done by the rules, mistakes in use can be harmful. And serious harm. Even death. The moment of training has to be agreed upon first. Because need people who can understand how to use this equipment and teach others.
What kind of manufacturing can be suitable for the level and culture of production? Aviation, space, underwater vehicles, some automotive, cosmetology (equipment, not service) and the like.
PhD | Co-Founder and CTO at Fairbrics
4 年https://hackaday.com/2020/03/12/ultimate-medical-hackathon-how-fast-can-we-design-and-deploy-an-open-source-ventilator/ https://www.projectopenair.org/