Apple releases manufacturing guides for face shields

Apple has published instructions and related design files on its support pages to help individuals create their own facemasks in the ongoing battle against the spread of the coronavirus.

There is a worldwide shortage of crucial medical equipment in hospitals and frontline, key worker roles, as the COVID-19 pandemic revealed how ill-equipped most countries and theri governments really are. This has led to a number of significantly large companies, including Apple, contributing their expertise to the cause, developing and designing their own protective equipment to donate to hospitals in need.

Apple published a “Make your own face shield” update on its support page on Sunday, which advises healthcare professionals and other people continuing to work in close proximity to others how to create the protective equipment. 

Image source: Apple

The instructions have recommended which materials to use for the equipment, whilst also providing instructions on how to actually manufacture the masks. A range of methods, from laser cutting to drag-knife techniques, are suggested in the guide, with design guides provided to follow and assist, along with a dedicated email address for support.

Apple has warned that the instructions should only be followed by an expert, as many items may require professional-level expertise. A factory environment is advised for production.

Apple announced two weeks ago that it would be producing protective equipment for medical workers, donating 160,000 shields to workers in the Port of Los Angeles. By releasing the guide, Apple enables many companies looking to help the battle against COVID-19 by completely cutting out the design stage of the process, allowing production to move straight into manufacturing.