Smart Solutions for enhancedbone & joint health in
an ageing population
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Fraunhofer Research Institution for Individualized and Cell-Based Medical Engineering (Coordinating Institution)

As an innovative and unique research institution, Fraunhofer IMTE develops intelligent systems and methods for health in the fields of medical technology and aquaculture. The focus is on the safe translation of these solutions into beneficial applications for a healthy society. Through a cycle of prevention, diagnosis, therapy, and rehabilitation, the concept of Circular Health is redefined, creating ideal conditions for the individualization of health technologies. The integration of Fraunhofer IMTE's expertise in electronics, mechanics, computer science, manufacturing technologies, and regulatory affairs represents a particular strength of its research. This combination enables the consideration of high requirements in the field of medical technology research and development and allows for the rapid transfer of results.

Projects in the central business and competence areas are grouped into six product categories: medical robotics and automation, cardiology and endovascular devices, magnetic methods and nanomedicine, X-ray imaging, ventilation, and musculoskeletal devices and prosthetics. Through its five platforms—AI-Motion Labs, Additive Manufacturing, Robotic Surgery, Biomechanics Laboratory, and a certified testing laboratory for non-destructive material testing—Fraunhofer IMTE ensures that developed solutions are quickly and reliably transferred into application. This generates significant added value for the health of society along the entire value chain, driving further development in line with the principles of Circular Health with agility and expertise.

Role within SmILE

As part of this innovative research consortium tackling musculoskeletal non-communicable diseases in the elderly, Fraunhofer IMTE leads key efforts in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and regulatory affairs. Fraunhofer IMTE coordinates the development of a comprehensive motion research database capturing biomechanical data from elderly subjects. Building on this foundation, advanced biomechanical motion models and AI algorithms will be designed to process, integrate, and analyze multimodal data from wearables, implants, and clinical sources. These AI tools developed by Fraunhofer IMTE will enable functional movement analysis, joint load estimation, and longitudinal predictions of healing trajectories and adverse events. The insights will empower healthcare professionals with advanced decision-support tools and help patients better understand their health. Fraunhofer IMTE also considers questions related to regulatory affairs to ensure the platform’s compliance with ethical and legal standards, thus preparing a safe and effective path from research to real-world application.

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Main contacts

Photo of Prof. Dr. med. Arndt-Peter Schulz
Prof. Dr. med. Arndt-Peter Schulz
Head of Business Channel Rehabilitation / Project lead
Photo of Dr. Jan Graßhoff
Dr. Jan Graßhoff
Head of Competence Center Software, Data, Algorithms and AI / WP leader
Photo of Dr. Lina Behrends
Dr. Lina Behrends
Deputy Head of Business Channel Rehabilitation
Photo of Gerrit Bücken
Gerrit Bücken
Research Assistant
Quote Profile Image

AI technologies emerging from the SmILE project offer powerful new ways to monitor and support patients with musculoskeletal diseases throughout their recovery journey

Jan Graßhoff