A team of young engineers at the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP) in the UAE has developed a new generation of prosthetic limbs using 3D printing technology. These 3D-printed prosthetics are superior to ones made with existing methods. They are lightweight, strong, comfortable, customizable, accurate, and can be manufactured at a much lower cost than traditional methods.
According to Abdulqader, a member of the research team, the breakthrough was achieved at SRTIP’s Sharjah Open Innovation Laboratory (SoiLAB) using industrial-grade 3D printing technology and artificial intelligence-based software. The new prosthetic limbs will ease the transition of patients who have lost their limbs due to accidents, natural disasters, and wars, as well as people of determination. They can be customized to meet the needs of the patient through software and can be manufactured at a much faster rate.
The manufacture of prosthetics using 3D printing techniques has many benefits. It drastically reduces costs when compared to traditional methods, enhances accuracy and customization, and allows for the production of more complex and precise parts. Furthermore, 3D printing reduces the margin of human error due to the high accuracy and professional finishing through these industrial-grade machines.
This development is in line with SRTIP’s groundbreaking feats in 3D printing technology, which also covers areas such as dentures, bones, medical and surgical devices, and hearing aids. Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO of SRTIP, said that the breakthrough by the young Emirati engineers reflects the emergence of the next generation of specialists and professionals in additive manufacturing and 3D technology. It is part of their integrated professional program to spot and nurture young Emirati engineers and groom them to be leaders, skilled industrial entrepreneurs, and professional specialists of the future.
The achievement of Emirati engineers reflects the success of SRTIP in nurturing Emirati talent. Last year, SRTIP celebrated the graduation of the second batch of young Emirati engineer trainees as part of the training and qualification program for future industries and technologies, the foremost of which is additive manufacturing. The program was a great success, as participants were selected from various universities and colleges in the UAE with academic backgrounds and qualifications in engineering.
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