Help for Healthcare Workers from Engineering Faculty

For University of Louisiana at Lafayette mechanical engineering instructor Yasmeen Qudsi, a 3-D printer, a computer-controlled “cutting plotter” and thousands of sheets of laminating paper have been essential supplies as she works remotely during the coronavirus outbreak.

In addition to teaching and advising students, Qudsi created hundreds of face shields for the Lafayette General Health System. The work was part of a comprehensive volunteer effort at UL Lafayette to help the health system as supply chains have been slowed during the outbreak.

As the nation’s health care system grapples with supply shortages, elbow grease and ingenuity are filling critical voids, Qudsi explained. Case in point: With shortages of the transparent plastic customarily used for the shields, she came up with the idea to use easily accessible laminating sheets. “They’re a great substitute. They do what they are supposed to do.”

Dr. Jaimie Hebert, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, said the volunteer effort is an example of the University’s responsibility – and role – to serve as a community partner.

“Health care professionals are working tirelessly to deal with the COVID-19 crisis. We feel it is our obligation to assist them while they are giving so selflessly of themselves to help ensure the well-being of others,” he said.

The University created about 800 frames and almost 4,000 transparent shields during the project, said Dr. Kumer Das, assistant vice president for Research, Innovation and Economic Development and assistant provost. Das began coordinating the campus effort after Lafayette General Health System reached out to the University about two weeks ago.

See the University's full article here