Development of 3D architectured smart prosthetics

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The proposed project is a collaborative effort among Dr. Woo Soo Kim's team at Simon Fraser University (SFU), partnered with a local Prosthetic company, Hodgson Orthopedic Group in Coquitlam BC. In this project, the team will develop the next generation of 3D architectured prosthetic liners, which will be 3D printed with architecture design driven by a novel pressure mapping technique. Capitalizing on the pressure data, the team will develop leverage advanced 3D architecture structures to produce biocompatible, pressure-responsive, mechanically durable, and breathable prosthetic liners. These liners will be compatible with both 3D printed rigid sockets and conventionally produced laminated sockets.Advanced 3D printing technologies are powerful tools for creating personalized biomedical devices based on high efficiency for customized prototypes. And 3D printing technology has already played an essential role in the healing and rehabilitation progress. Therefore, medical aids for the fabrication of smart prosthetic devices are amongst the most promising fields of biomedical 3D printing. The concept of smart architectured prosthetics is still quite new and unique, and not yet in the stage of prototype demonstration or practical tests. Our approach to the smart prosthetics realm is one where we use technology to drive the architecture of material interacting with the human to improve on the strengths of silicone without succumbing to its limitations. A 3D printed, pressure driven, breathable liner would be the first of its kind in the prosthetics industry. Our team intends to progressively decentralize this technology to expand the impact of the project as broadly as possible for all persons with amputation. Canada is synonymous with compassion and assistance on the national stage. We want our 3D architectured design technology to be something Canadians are proud of in industry and beyond. The proposed research will be a jumping off point for the next generation of 3D-printed data infused prosthetic applications. It will power the most efficient and effective solutions for those in need of aid.