In collaboration with Teesside University, HeadChannel delivered a game-changing software solution to support the development of prosthetic sockets. By integrating data from advanced sensors and leveraging innovative 3D modelling technology, the solution has enhanced the fitting process, improving outcomes for both prosthetists and patients.
The Challenge
Teesside University, in partnership with Lusstech, NHS Foundation Trusts, and several SMEs, aimed to revolutionise the prosthetics field by tackling one of its major challenges—ill-fitting prosthetic sockets. The team sought a more precise and efficient method to create prosthetic sockets that provide comfort, stability, and control, while significantly reducing the discomfort, skin lesions, and inefficiencies typically faced by patients.
The solution needed to integrate sensor data with a 3D model generation system, enabling precise adjustments to prosthetic sockets. The goal was to enhance the comfort and quality of life for amputees, while reducing the fitting time from weeks to days.
Why HeadChannel?
HeadChannel was chosen for our expertise in developing bespoke software solutions tailored to healthcare needs. Our track record in building reliable, user-friendly systems, combined with our ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, positioned us as the perfect partner to deliver an integrated prosthetic socket fitting system.
Our Approach
- Collaborative Discovery Phase
We worked closely with Teesside University, Lusstech, and other project partners to gather detailed requirements. Our team led workshops to understand the technical and user needs of prosthetists and patients, ensuring that the final solution was practical and user-friendly.
- Software Integration
We developed a Control Software Package (CSP) to manage the integration of 3D reconstruction, sensor data collection, and biomechanical analysis. The CSP connected Lusstech’s advanced QTSS™ sensors with 3D-printed test sockets, ensuring real-time feedback on socket fit and pressure points.
- User-Centric Design
We designed the software interface to be intuitive for prosthetists, providing easy navigation through patient records, socket adjustments, and real-time sensor data visualisation. This ensured that users could easily operate the system and make quick adjustments to socket designs.
- Data Processing and Automation
The system allowed prosthetists to collect and process data from QTSS™ sensors, feeding the information into an advanced algorithm to adjust socket fit dynamically. Automated features, such as report generation and sensor calibration, streamlined the process, reducing the manual workload.
Testimonial
“Collaborating on the QuickFit project has been a remarkable experience for our team. The challenge of integrating cutting-edge sensor technology with 3D modelling software required a blend of creativity and precision. We’re proud that our software solution has helped Teesside University and the wider healthcare team achieve their goal of producing more accurate, comfortable prosthetic sockets for amputees. The potential impact of this technology in improving patient care is inspiring.”
Richard Bundock
CTO, HeadChannel
The Outcome
The solution we developed for Teesside University revolutionised the way prosthetic sockets are fitted:
Improved Patient Outcomes: The system enabled real-time analysis of socket fit using sensor data, reducing discomfort and improving prosthetic acceptance rates.
Faster Fitting Process: What previously took weeks now takes days, as the system automates much of the socket-fitting process and reduces the need for multiple clinic visits.
Increased Efficiency: Prosthetists can now collect, process, and visualise data in real-time, allowing them to make quicker, more accurate adjustments to socket designs.
Scalability and Future Potential: The system’s modular design ensures that it can be expanded to include additional features, including machine learning to continuously improve the accuracy of socket fits.
This collaboration has successfully demonstrated how technology can transform the prosthetics industry and improve the quality of life for amputees globally.
About
Teesside University is renowned for its commitment to innovation in healthcare and engineering. The institution is a leader in developing technologies that enhance patient care and support groundbreaking medical advancements.
