Connecticut Biotech Launches New 3D Printed Mask Frame

Connecticut Biotech, a new innovative start-up company, is announcing the launch of its Secure Fit 3D-printed face mask frame. The mask frames are an exoskeleton worn outside of a traditional surgical mask, providing enhanced efficacy in protection against COVID-19 and other airborne pathogens. Secure Fit is a reusable, reliable device designed to make day-to-day interactions safer for users. In partnership with the University of Connecticut and under the leadership of surgeon-scientist Dr. Cato T. Laurencin, Connecticut Biotech developed the technology to manufacture the customized Secure Fit frames, which help cloth and disposable surgical masks fit tighter to the face. "Our Secure Fit mask frames increase the efficacy of masks and provide more protection because it is custom-made for each user," CEO of Connecticut Biotech Don Vaccaro says. "This not only ensures a comfortable fit, but a more secure fit." The concept of using facial-recognition software to pinpoint 3D-printing specifications for custom fitting was developed by UConn Health's Dr. Cato T. Laurencin and his team of researchers at the Connecticut Convergence Institute for Translation in Regenerative Engineering. With support from UConn's Technology Commercialization Services, Dr. Laurencin and his researchers submitted a patent application for the process earlier this year.