Custom, Comfortable, and Affordable Prosthetics for Animals (and Humans)
Researchers from Tec have launched a technology-driven company that combines artificial intelligence and 3D printing to design custom prosthetics and orthotics for animals. The project began after Mariel Alfaro and Ulises Dávila met a rescued dog that had lost both hind legs but survived after surgery.
“At the vet I go to, the doctor rescues a lot of dogs. He has one that was hit by a car and had to have its back legs amputated. Even though the surgery saved its life, I could see its quality of life wasn’t very good,” Mariel recalls.
This encounter inspired the creation of ProForm Dynamic, a startup founded by Alfaro and Dávila while working as researchers at the School of Engineering and Sciences on the Mexico City campus. Their mission is to offer accessible, tailored prosthetics for animals using 3D printing, artificial intelligence, and biocompatible materials.
Mariel, a biomedical engineer, and Ulises, a bionic engineer, combine their technical expertise with a passion for helping animals. Dávila has specialized in developing orthotic devices and collaborating with hospitals on bone fixation systems that stabilize fractures using plates and screws.
“I’m very protective of my dogs. One of them is now a senior and, because of her age, is starting to develop joint deformities,” Dávila shares.
Author’s Summary
Researchers from Tec turned their compassion for animals into innovation, using AI and 3D printing to create affordable, personalized prosthetics that improve both comfort and mobility.