Development of a Tissue Decellularisation Tool for Livers
The project focuses on the development of a tool for the decellularisation of liver tissues, which serve as biomaterial for future transplantations. The aim of the research is to replace current laboratory solutions with an ergonomic system that ensures maximum gentleness to the organ, reduces process time, and eliminates errors during handling and perfusion (washing).
The development follows a co-design methodology in cooperation with the Biomedical Center of the Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University. Based on the analysis of real procedures and 3D prototyping, a modular system was created, featuring a visually contrasting ring with integrated tubing fixation. This solution allows intuitive control over the position of the tissue without the need for harsh interventions. Current research is directed towards finalising the material solution using chemically resistant plastics and designing a specialised container that further simplifies handling and increases the stability of the entire setup in a clinical environment. Testing of the third functional prototype is underway throughout 2026.
Provider: Technology Agency of the Czech Republic (TAČR)
Project name: TA ČR SIGMA – DC1 TQ11000009 – Podpora komerčních příležitostí ZČU III
Sub-project duration: 1. 1. 2026 – 31. 12. 2026
Lead Investigator for FDU UWB: Mgr. art. Jan Korabečný
Pelvic Floor Disorder Prevention
Pelvic floor disorders significantly impact women’s quality of life, affecting their social and personal activities and contributing to mental health challenges. The project aims to raise awareness and develop a non-invasive device for evaluating the proper contraction of pelvic floor muscles. This system will rely on clinical data and advanced simulation technologies. The consortium combines expertise in healthcare, cybernetics, biomechanical modelling, industrial design and engineering. The project outcomes will be disseminated among healthy women aged 18–45, the general public, and professionals in gynaecology and physiotherapy. The FDA design team is responsible for the development of a working prototype, including material and form testing.
Provider: Interreg Czechia–Bavaria
Project name: Pelvic Floor Disorder Prevention
FDA implementation team: Mgr. art. Jan Korabečný, BcA. Radka Krajíčková
Joint project with NTC (New Technologies – Research Centre) of UWB
Project duration: 2023–2026
Applied Research on Exoskeleton
This project aims to strengthen research capacity between Technische Hochschule Deggendorf and the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen in applied research, with a focus on developing a lower limb exoskeleton prototype for rehabilitation. It involves innovation in design, construction technologies, 3D printing, and the transformation of brain signals into limb movement. The project brings together a multidisciplinary research team and five associated practice partners. It will enhance technology transfer capacity in rehabilitation and prosthetics. The FDA team is responsible for designing a new functional prototype of the exoskeleton, ready for application in healthcare and rehabilitation.
Provider: Interreg Czechia–Bavaria
Project name: Applied Research of an Exoskeleton for Use in Rehabilitation
FDA implementation team: Assoc. Prof. MgA. Zdeněk Veverka, Mgr. Tomáš Chochole, Ph.D.
Joint project with the Faculty of Health Care Studies, UWB
Project duration: 2023–2026
Spa Research Centre
The project aims to build infrastructure for research in spa care and balneology with direct benefits for the Karlovy Vary Region. One sub-project explores the effectiveness of therapeutic outdoor activities in spa landscapes. It is a joint effort by the Faculty of Health Care Studies and the Ladislav Sutnar Faculty of Design and Art. The research focuses on involving patients in rehabilitation during a three-week spa stay. The design faculty is responsible for signage and outdoor elements that support movement in natural settings.
Provider: The Ministry of the Environment of the Czech Republic
Project name: Centrum lázeňského výzkumu
Programme: Operational Programme Just Transition
FDA implementation team: Assoc. Prof. MgA. Zdeněk Veverka, Mgr. Tomáš Chochole, Ph.D.
Joint project with the Faculty of Health Care Studies, UWB
Partners: University of West Bohemia in Pilsen (Faculty of Health Care Studies, Ladislav Sutnar Faculty of Design and Art, Faculty of Economics), Czech Technical University in Prague, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences
Project duration: 2024–2027