Cape Town-based subsea engineering expert, MMO, a Unique Group company, has developed a non-invasive positive pressure ventilator .
The system has been specifically created to aid African authorities treat patients who are displaying COVID-19-related symptoms.
The Uni-Life 100 ventilator can be mass produced as a light-weight, modular alternative to other systems, Unique said.
Unique also said it plans to produce the initial batch of 10,000 units.
Specifically, the system utilises Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) architecture.
It incorporates a compact gas blending and supply system which provides a therapeutic mixture of air and enriched oxygen.
The system includes an inflatable vinyl hood which goes over the patient’s head, allowing them to breathe the therapeutic air.
Rodney McKechnie , Group director for Unique Group’s Africa operations and managing director for MMO , said:
“We are proud to have locally designed and tested the compact Uni-Life 100 positive pressure ventilating system, and we are now ready to mass produce.
“Through our life support and hyperbaric medical equipment, we have committed to saving lives globally; the inhouse designed ventilation system now helps raise awareness of our regional capabilities during these incredibly challenging times.
“The system bolsters our efforts in supporting measures to collaborate and further develop this critical treatment system to meet current demands.