Trans-Belt Medical Robotics Cluster

Despite similar demographic challenges and disease profiles, differences in clinical workflows, regulations, and cultures complicate the adoption of new technologies. Trans-Belt MRC addresses these barriers by leveraging expertise from SDU Odense and Fraunhofer IMTE Lübeck, including facilities like the Lübeck Innovation Hub for Robotic Surgery (LIROS), where medical robots can be tested in real clinical conditions.

AIM

The analysis of barriers to innovation transfer is examined on the basis of two cases: ROPCA’s ARTHUR robot, which is specifically designed for the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, which is at a high technical readiness level already, and Stryker, with a focus on the adaptation of technologies for automation in the healthcare sector at a low technical readiness level. 

The findings will be incorporated into the cluster as best practices, so that the results can be used by companies in the region. Hospitals will contribute their clinical expertise to the development and implementation of the best practices, so that clinical requirements, e.g. regarding interfaces to hospital systems, are taken into account. 

Overall, the project aims to

1. Investigate barriers to innovation transfer between Denmark and Germany
2. Use the ARTHUR robot for rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis to demonstrate cross-border technology adoption
3. Develop guidelines and workflows for introducing medical robotics across different healthcare systems
4. Strengthen regional innovation ecosystems, support SMEs, and boost international visibility of the medical robotics sector
5. By connecting research, clinical expertise, and industry, Trans-Belt MRC aims to improve patient care, support healthy aging, and contribute to EU innovation and health strategies in the Baltic Sea Region.

PARTNERS

• SDU Robotics, Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Institute (lead)
• Fraunhofer Institute for Individualized and Cell-Based Medical Engineering (IMTE) 
• Klinik für Rheumatologie und klinische Immunologie, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein 
• ROPCA ApS 
• Stryker Trauma GmbH
• Rheumaliga
• Danish Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, University Hospital of Southern Denmark 
• Zealand University Hospital
• Danish Life Science Cluster
• Life Science Nord Management GmbH 

CCR will draw on its network of clinicians and industry partners to gather data and information about opportunities, barriers and best practices for the implementation of robotics. This includes engaging with the Patient Support team and the Patient Representatives Groups at Odense University Hospital.

EXTERNAL FUNDING

The project is co-funded by the European Commission's Interreg Deutschland-Danmark programme.