Our recent and current projects include:
Development of an ultrasonically welded device for surgical suture holding
Working with OsteoWeld Surgical Ltd, with Innovate UK funding, we have developed a novel biodegradable ultrasonically welded device for in-body sutures that requires no surgical knotting.
In situ additive manufacturing
We are currently developing techniques for in situ additive manufacturing which could be the next step in patient specific implants. The techniques involve scanning a defect in an object and then 3D printing directly on the object to correct the defect.
Generative design of fracture fixation devices
In collaboration with the Manufacturing Technology Centre, Autodesk and University Hospitals Birmingham we are innovating and validating advanced fracture fixation devices, by utilising the latest developments in generative design.
Bioinspired Design
In collaboration with the School of Mathematics we are developing new ways to design 3D geometries, which can be fabricated using additive manufacturing, inspired by plant root growth. This EPSRC funded project engages with industrial and clinical partners and has applications in the design of novel cardiovascular graft materials.
Computational design of rehabilitation medicine
Our basic research aims to understand the form and function of the skeletal-muscular system. Building upon an improved understanding of the form-function relationship, underpinned by advancements in measurement techniques and computational modelling, optimisation and simulation, we are developing novel rehabilitation medicine, mainly including physical exercises and assistive devices, in order to enhance the function and performance for people with skeletal-muscular conditions. Our research is funded by EPSRC, in collaborations with NHS Trust and local charities (e.g., LimbPower, The Royal British Legion).
Numerical models to evaluate function, disease and repair
Anatomic descriptions of the lumbar spine and the mitral heart valve have been applied to enable the generation of morphometric, scalable computer models. These include:
These tools enable the mechanical analysis of function, disease or damage, and repair such as via a medical device. There is scope to adapt these morphometric computer models to evaluate growth.
Novel designs of bone-like scaffolds
We are currently developing 3D printing processes, topology optimisation methods, characterisation techniques, experimental testing, and numerical simulations to support the development of bone graft substitutes for bone repair, augmentation, or substitution. The aim of this project is to develop synthetic bone graft substitutes made from naturally occurring and biocompatible substances with similar mechanical properties to real bone tissues.