Engineering Protoypes and Implants for Children (EPIC) Lab
The EPIC Lab (Engineering Prototypes and Implants for Children Lab) is a modern 3D technologies facility based at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead. We work with researchers and clinicians to improve the quality of care for children with orthopaedic and neurological conditions.
Our lab is equipped with a range of 3D technologies, including advanced 3D scanners, such as structured light scanners (Artec EVA, Artec Leo, and Structure Sensor), which employ advanced optical techniques to capture high-resolution 3D models of objects. We also house 3D printers such as the industrial grade Fortus® 450mc, filament 3D printers (Flashforge®) and resin 3D printers (Formlab®). To facilitate the design and modelling process, the EPIC lab employs computer-aided design (CAD) software such as Rhinoceros® and Solidworks®, enabling researchers to generate and manipulate 3D shapes prior to the physical printing stage.
Objectives
Our objectives are to develop solutions for the gaps in care for children with nerve, muscle and bone disorders, with a focus on bone implants and 3D printed assistive devices. We strive for our results to be translated into clinical practice to promote overall health and well-being of children with orthopaedic and neuromuscular conditions. Our primary goal is to improve children's daily lives by expediting the production timeline and enhancing the acceptability and effectiveness of Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFOs).
Impact
- We have designed a wrist fusion plate that is specifically intended to be used for children with cerebral palsy, which is now available FDA approved.
- We are also using 3D printing to produce better Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFOs), which are assistive devices that support the lower limb in children who have trouble walking.
- In collaboration with other researchers from the Kids Neuroscience Centre, Neuropathy Research Group and the Paediatric Gait Analysis Lab, we are developing rehabilitative interventions that involve AFOs for children with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT).
Collaborators
