Major UK technology, engineering and industrial enterprises from a host of sectors – including automotive, aerospace and medical – have formed a consortium, combining expertise to create medical ventilators, helping the NHS meet the demands of COVID-19.
Microsoft, GKN and Ford have now explored the potential production of a ventilator line based on the designs drafted by UK companies Smiths Group and Penlon.
Saving lives with built-for-purpose equipment
UK government officials and doctors have stated they require more ventilators to save lives during the current pandemic, which affects our respiratory systems. The devices can help people to breathe by employing a pump that pushes oxygen in while removing carbon dioxide from our bodies.
After the governments formal request, the consortium of companies known as VentilatorChallengeUK has agreed what is required to design, construct and test a “rapidly manufactured ventilator system” and its components at different sites throughout the country. The equipment will be manufactured in line with certain specifications outlined by both clinicians along with the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
A group comprising manufacturing research centres known as the High Value Manufacturing (HVM) Catapult is leading the new consortium.
Chief Executive for the HVM Catapult, Dick Elsy commented:
“This consortium brings together some of the most innovative companies in the world. Every day, their highly skilled staff collaborate to create solutions that help millions of people, and this project is no different. They are working together with incredible determination and energy to scale up production of much-needed ventilators and combat a virus that is affecting people in many countries. I am confident this consortium has the skills and tools to make a difference and save lives.”
Cutting-edge support from Microsoft
Alongside its partners, Content & Code, Avanade, PTC and IT Lab, Microsoft is offering strong technological support to the consortium and its work. The tech giant has given it free-of-charge access to Microsoft Teams, allowing members to share documents, manage training sessions, message and talk from any location.
Microsoft mobile and HoloLens devices will be running the PTC application Vuforia Expert Capture, designed to make and share content for training purposes. This teamwork will equip workers with step-by-step instructions regarding how to establish and implement the necessary production processes required to manufacture ventilators. On top of this Dynamics 365 remote Assist will enable users with a hands-free option for video calling via HoloLens allowing operators to work together with specialists on a mobile device or PC.
Unlike the way virtual reality places users inside a computer generated and fully realised world, HoloLens empowers users by placing digital 3D models next to them in a room. HoloLens is wireless and doesn’t require a PC or phone connection, so users are free to walk around any object they are working on and can use voice, gaze and gestures to make interactions.
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