Innovating computer aided design and manufacturing of medical devices

This KTP aimed to innovate in the computer aided design and manufacturing of medical devices, enhancing productivity by linking simulations, automatic machining code generation and inspection to CAD models to significantly reduce machine setting times, facilitating rapid reaction to patient needs. 

ATC

ATC design and produce high accuracy medical devices for the orthopaedic, neuroscience, cardiac, prosthetic limb and dental industries. Situated near Salfords in Surrey the company specialises in machining difficult materials, with titanium as the major material used on site. 

The Challenge

ATC needed access to advanced CAM expertise in order to automate the rapid generation of machining code, integrate inspection and enable rapid customisation of components with varying geometry. Although the concept of integrated inspection was able to be demonstrated at the company, there was no implementation on the factory floor.  

Our approach

Dr Yan Wang, Dr Derek Covill and Dr Tim Katz from the School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematics formed the academic team to support and inform this project, providing expertise in 3D modelling, CAD, material/product testing, and extensive experience in medical engineering projects ranging from development of bespoke orthopaedic implants to development of in vivo electrochemical sensors.

Project outcomes

  • With efficient project progress and rapidly changing available technology, the project successfully completed its aims one year early.
  • Advanced CAD/CAM expertise and knowledge was transferred to the engineering and productions teams at ATC.
  • Protocols relating to machine code generation and product inspection were established and fully documented.
  • Advanced CAD/CAM capability was embedded within the company to reduce machine set-up times, integrate inspection with manufacture and accept more complex jobs.
  • The project was awarded the highest grade of "Outstanding" by the KTP Grading Panel for its achievement in meeting KTP's objectives and the Associate was employed by the company.
  • Six final year student projects were completed, one of the students was employed by ATC after graduation.

Quick facts

  • Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) is a world-leading programme that helps businesses succeed by connecting them to the UK's rich academic resources.
  • KTPs are a partnership between the business seeking expertise, a university or college and a recently qualified graduate – known as an Associate. 
  • The graduate (Associate) carries out a strategic project for the business, working with an expert university academic. The Associate works from within the business, under the guidance of the academic, supervised by the company and the university.
  • Each partnership lasts from twelve months to three years.
  • Up to 67% of the project costs are government-funded via Innovate UK.

If you would like to talk with our KTP team, please submit your enquiry here.

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