An initial batch of 5,000 Smiths ParaPAC300 ventilators is the initial target, with the company saying it will utilise the speed of response and rapid processes derived from its motorsport background.
The VentilatorChallengeUK Consortium is led by the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, a group of manufacturing research centres in the UK and, as well as WAE, includes Airbus, GKN, Rolls-Royce, PA Consulting, Thales, Siemens, Mclaren and BAE Systems. The production of an initial batch of 5,000 Smiths Group ParaPAC300 ventilators for the NHS is one of the consortium’s project.
WAE is involved in developing 3D CAD models for the Bill of Materials, test equipment re-engineering and manufacturing, procurement and rapid prototyping. It was engaged on 19 March to conduct re-engineering activity on the ParaPAC300 ventilator unit, producing a number of prototype ventilator components within two weeks.
The majority of the work has been undertaken at WAE’s Grove facility or by personnel working remotely from home and to date has involved over 50 staff members.
Craig Wilson, managing director of Williams Advanced Engineering, said: “We are proud to be working with so many innovative partners on this project. Williams Advanced Engineering prides itself on speed of response and rapid turnaround; skills we can really maximise as part of the VentilatorChallengeUK Consortium. We are all determined that the results of our collective efforts will make a huge difference and save lives”.
