AutoMedPrint – automated design and rapid manufacturing of individualized mechanical and biomechatronic prosthetic and orthotic devices

Author: dr hab. inż. Filip Górski, prof. PP

The AutoMedPrint project represents a groundbreaking advancement in the automation of designing and manufacturing anatomically individualized medical devices using additive manufacturing (AM). The technology bridges the gap between patient-specific anatomical data and the efficient, cost-effective production of customized medical devices. By integrating 3D scanning, intelligent CAD modeling, and advanced AM workflows, AutoMedPrint offers a solution for creating individualized orthopedic and prosthetic devices while minimizing manual intervention. 

The core innovation of AutoMedPrint lies in its automated design pipeline, which translates raw anatomical data into 3D-printable CAD models. The process begins with patient data acquisition through high-resolution optical 3D scanning. These datasets are processed using advanced, proprietary algorithms to generate digital anatomical models, which are then fed into intelligent CAD templates. The templates use parametric and script-based modeling to quickly adapt to patient-specific requirements, eliminating the need for extensive manual adjustments.

The AutoMedPrint platform has been validated through dozens of real-world case studies. These were focused mostly on pediatric patients, who due to rapid body growth and economic reasons often are not equipped with proper prosthetic or orthotic devices. The studies included development and evaluation of custom prosthetic and orthotic devices, mostly for upper limbs, using polymeric and composite materials. They demonstrated the technology’s ability to significantly reduce lead times, improve product fit and functionality, and enhance patient outcomes. The system’s automation capabilities also make it accessible to non-experts, such as clinicians and technicians. It is also patient-friendly – user interface of AutoMedPrint system contains a number of interactive solutions, including a VR configuration tool which helps the patients to familiarize themselves with and customize their devices. Modularity of the system ensures adjustment capabilities for the needs of various branches of personalized healthcare.

The research related to AutoMedPrint technology has proven so far that rapid and scalable low-cost production of anatomically precise devices for direct patient use is a viable concept. The project outcomes are expected to have a profound impact on patient care, offering affordable, customized solutions that enhance the efficiency of healthcare delivery. The project has received multiple awards, both at the domestic and international level. The technology is in constant development and the results so far allowed to formulate several new research directions, which are currently pursued by the scientific team, including extensive international collaboration.