Universitätsmedizin Rostock

The Biomechanics and Implant Technology Research Laboratory (FORBIOMIT) (Head: Prof. Dr. med. Dipl.-Ing. Rainer Bader) was allocated at the Department of Orthopaedics, Rostock University Medical Center. The research focus includes questions from basic research on musculoskeletal modeling, experimental biomechanics, implant technology, musculoskeletal tissue regeneration and clinically applied research. In cooperation with industrial partners, implants and treatments for musculoskeletal disorders are being developed and tested.

Role within SmILE

Within the SmILE project, UMR is focusing on Use Cases 4 and 5, which involve sensor integration and the augmentation of joint endoprostheses. The team is collaborating closely with project partners to advance the development of intelligent hip and knee implants equipped with various sensor functions. This includes both computer-based and experimental investigations on laboratory samples and functional demonstrators.

UMR's contributions include motion capture and numerical simulation of the musculoskeletal system of the lower extremities. These efforts aim to generate data that will support the analysis and optimization of augmented joint implants, enhancing their functionality and reliability. In addition, the team will carry out experimental validation to ensure that all targeted functionalities are successfully achieved, offering critical insights into the feasibility and potential of smart joint endoprostheses.

Main contacts

Prof. Dr. med. habil. Dipl.-Ing. Rainer Bader

Head of FORBIOMIT / Project leader

Dr.-Ing. Märuan Kebbach

Head of working group Numerical simulation at FORBIOMIT / Project leader

Prof. Dr. med. habil. Martin Ellenrieder

Senior Consultant / Researcher

Franziska Geiger, M. Sc.

Research Associate

Thomas Kleine, M. Sc.

Research Associate

UMR is proud to support the SmILE project, viewing smart implant solutions as key to tackling global health challenges linked to demographic change. Building on our foundational work in the ELAINE Collaborative Research Center, our interdisciplinary team brings deep expertise in computational and experimental biomechanics.\n\nWe’re especially excited to collaborate with top European partners to develop cutting-edge sensor technologies for hip and knee implants—advancing musculoskeletal care and improving quality of life for older adults.

Rainer Bader