Med-Tech Innovation December 1, 2023
Lower limb prosthetic sockets could soon be printed in remote locations and even in users’ homes, thanks to a process developed by manufacturing experts at Loughborough University.
Dr Simin Li, a senior lecturer in mechanics of biomaterials in the School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering, has pioneered a fully digital design-to-manufacturing process that could revolutionise lower limb socket production by allowing printing outside of hospital settings.
Traditionally, the creation of a lower limb socket has been a time-consuming process, taking around three-to-six weeks.
The method involves taking a cast of the limb, which serves as a mould for crafting a socket. The process necessitates visits to hospitals, relies heavily on labour-intensive skills and expertise, and often involves a trial-and-error...
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