In the midst of the coronavirus crisis, the Lausanne-based start-up Helvitek Labs has developed a solution to prevent injuries caused by the intensive wearing of protective masks used in medical environments. A model of innovation, developed in the emergency of an unprecedented context. In this exceptional situation, health care workers are on the front line suffering from psychological pressure, strain and exhaustion. The daily use of FFP2 and N95 respirators, which cause facial injuries especially when worn during long periods, contributes to this stress.
In the light of the sanitary and medical urgency linked to COVID and in a spirit of solidarity to help improve the comfort and protection of care workers, Helvitek Labs proposes the facepieces in a medical elastomer to Swiss medical establishments. Helvitek focused on developing a protective film that tolerates prolonged skin contact and avoids excessive pressure on the face. Made of medical elastomer, this morphological facial structure, which is disposable for health reasons, is added to the inside of the protective mask.
Since Helvitek has been developing effective, elegant and above all comfortable urban anti-pollution masks. The team quickly decided to use its know-how to offer a solution to carers. A multisciplanary team participated in the project in a start-up spirit. BMCO , a Zurich-based design agency, also collaborated on the project.
He guided the start-up in the choice of materials and suppliers in order to meet the requirements of functionality and medical standards.
He validated the injectability of the part by means of rheological simulations, i. In addition, he contributed to the optimisation of the part design and developed the mould concept. The morphological facial structure was quickly ready. Marketing of the product in Switzerland and Europe will follow. The eruption of the pandemic did not waste the young company's time. The experience of the face protection film acted as a catalyst.
