Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 1

Garnet Orthopedic Solutions is a retail trade name for Precision Orthotics Inc. that provides a wide range ofservices and products such as assessing gait patterns, posture, and foot health to fabricate custom orthotics,while also correcting lower body kinetic chain deficiencies and reduces the overall strain on an individual'sbody and joints with their custom foot orthotics. However, the orthopedist team has recognized significantissues caused by posterior hip dislocation, which can negatively affect recovery from surgery and have lastingeffects on the individual. Posterior hip dislocation is the second most common complication following hiparthroplasty (THA) that affects 11% of patients. Left untreated, conditions for people can worsen includingincreased pain and discomfort. Presently, orthopedists have no direct solution that can be applied long-term.Garnet has developed a solution for this problem that is currently being 3D printed, however, is looking for aninjection molded solution to increase production capacity and reduce costs. In collaboration, Garnet OrthopedicSolutions and Lambton College will focus on optimizing the 3D printed design, developing an extrudedmaterial ready for injection molding, and will further design and test the mold for shoe and outsole parts. Thesuccess of the collaborative project will allow Garnet to economically produce footwear that will have asignificant impact and improvement on the livelihood of the people. Additionally, Garnet will be able tosignificantly expand its business through the manufacturing and sales of footwear. It is expected that within thefirst year of initial production after the completion of the project that up to 5000 pairs of shoes will beproduced per year. Furthermore, during the initial toll stage and full production Garnet anticipates hiring anadditional 10-20 full-time employees to support manufacturing and production. The optimized design anddevelopment of the footwear will have a positive impact on many Canadians, helping people to recover quickerpost-surgery and return to a normal as well as a more active role in their local communities.