A TEAM of engineers from The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH) have had their efforts recognised with a prestigious industry award.

The Orthotic Research and Locomotor Assessment Unit (ORLAU) in partnership with Ricoh 3D, won the Healthcare Application Award at a 'fabulous' ceremony for the TCT Awards.

The team won the award for their work to update an old-fashioned knee alignment device which had become expensive to source, repair and replace.

Sam Oliver, clinical engineer and designer at the Oswestry-based hospital, admitted they were delighted to receive the award tor recognise the 'crucial' work they do.

He said: "This whole process has really shone a spotlight on the key that 3D printing technologies hold, when unlocking the next generation of innovations.

"We are thrilled to see the project recognised in this way and look forward to continuing our working partnership with the team at Ricoh 3D."

The Telford-based business, Ricoh 3D, specialises in 3D printing services and manufacturing solutions, and supports its clients from design to prototype to then production.

The TCT Awards celebrates the technology, innovations, and application developments within the 3D printing community.

Mark Dickin, additive manufacturing and moulding engineering manager at Ricoh, says the partnership with the hospital has been fruitful. 

He said: "It’s been great to showcase the fantastic work we’ve done with the ORLAU team, and I am thrilled with the award win.

"The versatility and potential of 3D really is limitless, and we are thrilled that we have been able to make a real difference to the lives of patients with our knowledge and skill in this technology."

A RJAH spokesman explained how the lab's work makes a difference.

They said: "The device is used in the Gait Lab in ORLAU where the walking gait and movement of patients is analysed, was specifically built and designed through 3D printing and has new and improved features to support performance for both clinicians and patients."