Amazon Set to Produce Its Own Face Shields for Front Liners
Amazon’s very own engineers developed reusable face shields for those in the front lines against the COVID-19 battle. A team from the company’s drone delivery unit collaborated with 3D printing volunteers to develop the face shields.
The technology company’s mechanical design and hardware teams reportedly adapted the design from the 3D Face Shield Hub. The creations were upgraded to be more comfortable, ergonomic, and be more practical.
The modifications from the company are made based on the feedback given by health and medical experts.
Among the design changes is the rounder or less sharper corners that could be harmful or snag on hair or clothing. Another is that the headband is made to reduce the pressure on the forehead.
Technology news reports say that the project was announced through its recent blog post.
Amazon’s vice president of robotics, Brad Porter said that the company isn’t usually known for hardware designs. Adding that the e-commerce giant has many teams working on hardware development and its discipline.
The company has repurposed its drone manufacturing line to help cut and produce face shield screens.
According to the company, its face shield will initially be restricted to frontline workers. But eventually, the online retailer expects to put them on sale for a “significantly lower” cost.
Although it wasn’t disclosed how much the shields would sell for on the market.
In the blog post, the firm confirmed that its already approved by the National Institutes of Health. Adding that it has already donated 10,000 face shields and is looking to donate 20,000 more.
Amazon isn’t the only tech company to produce health and medical gear. Apple, the smartphone giant, has also been producing face shields since last month.
Complaints and Issues
Amidst the recent announcement, the company has been slammed by critics and its workers. According to reports, there have been complaints that the online retailer isn’t providing gear for its own employees.
In fact, the company is riddled with negative comments online, mainly on Twitter. The statements aren’t only about its face shields, but also to news about Jeff Bezos being the first trillionaire in the future and employee treatment.
Through modern technology, the online retailer has helped consumers get essentials during the lockdowns. However, there have been reports about employees complaining about losing their hazard pays.
Unfortunately, there are now seven coronavirus deaths from the company’s workforce. And apparently, Amazon still refuses to disclose how many are sick or affected.
