The Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-assisted Innovation Laboratory (Inno Lab) in Palawan located in Western Philippines University (WPU) has initially produced 172 pieces of make-shift frames assembled into face shields and distributed to different hospitals and health centers.
This was made possible through the cooperation of WPU, Fullbright College, and the UP Alumni Association- Palawan Chapter. The frames for the face shields were designed and produced using an industrial 3D printer provided by DOST-MIMAROPA to the innolab.
Phyllicia Anne M. Baguyo, Science Research Specialist II of Palawan Science and Technology Center (PSTC) based in DOST office in the government center, Barangay Sta. Monica, said that their agency has utilized 3D printing in its effort to aid Covid-19 response.
The DOST in a statement said that technologies using new manufacturing techniques has addressed the shortages of necessary medical personal protective equipment (PPE) in the country as it battles coronavirus disease (Covid) -19.
The production of the frames at the Inno Lab continues while plans on improving the laboratory and its services is also underway to ensure that quality innovation support can be given to clients.
“All these initiatives are perfect realization of what was envisioned in the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022, wherein projects and programs that stimulate innovation become essential in addressing challenges and achieving local and national development goals. In this fight against Covid 19, DOST-MIMAROPA will continue bringing Science for the People,” the DOST further said.
The establishment of the Innovation Laboratory is a project of DOST-MIMAROPA in partnership with WPU started in 2018 that aims to promote innovation in Palawan by creating a space where ideas and designs can be turned into actual prototypes or products. The Inno Lab is open for use of makers, students, designers, engineers, researchers, hobbyists, inventors, and innovators in the province.
The Inno Lab houses several equipment provided by DOST-MIMAROPA including: CNC Mill Machine used for engraving, facing, drilling, and cutting of metal, wood, plastic, and other solid materials except glass; industrial 3d printer for printing of large 3D items; and a general-purpose 3D printer for printing of small 3D printed items.
During its operation, students and faculties from WPU and other schools and universities in Puerto Princesa City use the inno Lab to turn their research outputs into actual prototypes. Mostly, items fabricated in the Inno Lab are small parts that is unique for the projector parts that are not readily available in the market. Some of the items fabricated through Inno Lab Include ESP WIFI Button, Arduino Case and Module Relay, and Box Molder among others.