True story. The British technology company best known for its vacuum cleaners, fans and a $500-plus hairdryer has designed a new ventilator – named the ‘CoVent’ – in response to a call out from the UK Government for companies to make ventilators – essential for treating severe cases of COVID-19
Dyson is still seeking regulatory approval in the UK for the device (pictured) – which was reportedly developed in just 10 days based on its existing digital motor technology – but has already received an order for 10,000 for the National Health Service (NHS).
The remaining 5,000 will be donated to international efforts with 1,000 staying in the UK.
“The race is now on to get it into production,” found James Dyson told staff in an email.
Australia has just 2,300 ventilators across its entire intensive care system with surge capacity for another 5,000 beds – but the number of coronavirus patients in intensive care is rising.
According to NSW Health, there are currently 19 people who have tested positive for the virus in UCUs – nine on ventilators.
In response, the Government here is also looking to boost its stocks by asking carmaker Ford to produce the devices.
Melbourne company ResMed is currently developing 1,000 new invasive ventilators – which place tubes down the trachea – with Medtronic, Philips, GE and ResMed all producing non-invasive ventilators.
The Government clearly doesn’t believe it will be enough however.
They are also investigating whether veterinary equipment and sleep apnoea machines can be converted for use as ventilators.
Desperate times call for desperate measures?
