Firm ‘refuses to give blueprint’ for coronavirus equipment that could save lives

A sub tender would be a better bet. They have more machinery repairmen, who do this kind of stuff. We had a very important part that broke on our ship, prevented us from doing our mission. The Combat Systems guys came to me, asked if the MR could make a replacement. This thing was a 5 way HP and LP valve body, made out of aluminum. Went down to the shop, gave the broken part to the MR and asked him if he could make a replacement. He said no problem, had it done in about 8 hours, and we were fully mission capable. I made sure he got a Navy Commendation Medal, and he is now locksmith....

Don't need the blueprints - just get one to cut in half to see how it works. The fabricated one might be bulkier but I bet it would work. Bet there would be enough differences that no one could claim patent infringement.

Here is a better article, much less sensationalism.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/amyfeldman/2020/03/19/talking-with-the-italian-engineers-who-3d-printed-respirator-parts-for-hospitals-with-coronavirus-patients-for-free/#14dbd2f778f1