element14 announced the launch of the “Fighting Germs” Project14 design challenge. The challenge is engaging element14’s problem-solving designers and engineers to find innovative solutions to fighting germs, one of the most efficient ways to slow the spread of COVID-19.
The goal of this challenge is for members of the element14 Community to create an affordable project that uses resources and components that are readily available so others can easily replicate their designs. The hope is that people around the world will be able to help slow and prevent the spread of COVID-19 in their communities with these innovative approaches.
"Everyone has the opportunity to do their part to help slow the spread of this disease, and that is especially true of our amazing community of engineers, makers and hobbyists,” said Dianne Kibbey, global head of community and social media for the element14 Community. "Our members came to us just as the lock-downs started and asked us to launch a challenge for new innovations in this area. We encourage our more than 730,000 members to put their unique design skills to work and create solutions to help prevent the spread of this pandemic."
Unlike other design challenges, there are no specific requirements to participate. element14 says solutions could include face protection, body temperature monitor/access controls, contactless disinfection of frequently touched surfaces and automated disease testing.
The grand prize winner of the “Fighting Germs” design challenge will win a $200 shopping cart to Newark, a $200 donation to their preferred COVID-19 charitable cause and a Flir thermal imaging camera. An additional 3 winners will each receive $100 shopping carts to Newark to help bring their designs to life along with a UV sanitizing lamp. Members can work on tackling this challenge solo or in teams, as long as they collaborate remotely.
The “Fighting Germs” Project 14 design challenge is open now through June 15. Winners will be announced by June 29.
