FRUGAL INNOVATION: CASE STUDIES ON THE CREATION OF MECHANICAL FANS FOR THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

ABSTRACT

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome of Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes Covid-19, has spread, quickly becoming a pandemic. The disease caused a shortage of mechanical fans in the Brazilian and worldwide markets. This research aimed to understand the development of mechanical ventilators for the care of patients affected by Covid-19, focusing on difficulties and the configuration of innovation. An exploratory research was carried out, with a qualitative approach, a multiple case study. Data collection took place through semi-structured interviews with innovative agents. Data were analyzed through content analysis. The results demonstrate that the equipment developed is a frugal innovation, since it has at least four characteristics of this type of innovation: accessibility and low cost; meeting a certain need; use of alternative parts; and innovation. Participants showed a resilient behavior to overcome the difficulties associated with the approval cost; time, creativity and social distance; specific knowledge needs; and the need to work with a reduced cost margin. The research presents a contribution to the understanding of the development of frugal innovation in a contingency context, as was the case of the pandemic, focusing on creative individuals and on the creation process.

Keywords:
Coronavirus; Frugal innovation; Mechanical ventilator; Innovation