RespiraWorks develops open-source, low-cost ventilators and powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs) designed for rapid, local manufacturing. Their medical devices are built to be easily assembled and maintained by communities, providing accessible respiratory support.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Many low-resource communities lack access to essential medical equipment like ventilators and powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs), especially during crises like pandemics. Existing supply chains are often inadequate to meet the rapidly increasing demand, leaving many individuals without the respiratory support they need.
Solution
RespiraWorks designs and develops open-source, low-cost ventilators and PAPRs, enabling local manufacturing and distribution to underserved communities. Their designs prioritize ease of assembly, maintenance, and accessibility, ensuring that essential respiratory support can reach those who need it most, regardless of location or economic status. By providing the know-how and technology, RespiraWorks empowers communities to manufacture these systems themselves, fostering self-sufficiency and resilience in the face of global health challenges. The organization partners with local teams to facilitate implementation, navigate regulatory processes, and optimize supply chains for sustainable production.
Target Audience
The primary beneficiaries are individuals in low-resource communities and developing economies who lack access to advanced medical equipment, as well as healthcare workers and organizations seeking to provide affordable and accessible respiratory support.
Features
- Open-source designs for both ventilators and PAPRs, freely available for modification and local production
- Low-cost bill of materials (BOM) optimized for sourcing and manufacturing in resource-constrained environments
- Ventilator design capable of advanced support regimes like Pressure Regulated Volume Control (PRVC)
- PAPR design utilizing P100 filters for high-efficiency filtration of incoming and exhaled air
- Modular designs that facilitate experimentation, assembly, and servicing
- Designs adhere to ISO standards for medical equipment and design processes
- Comprehensive documentation and resources available on GitHub