Trans-Belt Medical Robotics Cluster

About

The Trans-Belt Medical Robotics Cluster (Trans-Belt MRC) strengthens cross-border collaboration between Denmark and Germany by transferring and jointly advancing innovative medical robotics and assistive technologies. In the Trans-Belt region, a cross-border cluster with competence centers in Odense and Lübeck is emerging, connecting industry, hospitals, and research. Robotic systems are tested and evaluated under realistic clinical conditions to assess performance, usability, and patient safety. In parallel, a toolbox is being developed to systematically evaluate every phase of the market introduction process based on acceptance, usability, and regulatory criteria.

Opportunity

Although Denmark and Germany share similar demographic trends and disease prevalence, the transfer of robotic innovations into routine clinical care is often complex. Differences in clinical workflows, regulatory frameworks, organizational structures, and cultural expectations hinder the adoption of new technologies. Variations in interoperability, acceptance, and usability increase deployment risks and slow down the integration of robotic assistance systems — despite their substantial potential to improve care quality and relieve clinical staff.

Solution/Product description

Trans-Belt MRC establishes a joint development and testing environment where robotic systems can be evaluated and optimized under real-world clinical conditions.
A central pilot project is the deployment of the Danish robotic system ROPCA, an automated solution for scanning hands for early signs of rheumatoid arthritis. The pilot study examines:

• clinical benefit and cost-effectiveness within the German healthcare system
• workflow integration and impact on clinical processes
• acceptance among medical staff and patients
• cultural differences in the use and interaction with robotic systems

Insights from the study feed directly into improved, user-centered robotic solutions that reflect the actual needs of clinical practice.

Why Us

Trans-Belt MRC integrates robotics expertise, clinical application, technology transfer, regulatory insights, and cultural analysis within one unified framework — a combination that is unique in Europe. The close collaboration between industry, research, and healthcare providers creates a strong foundation for reducing market-entry risks and tailoring robotic systems to the needs of real clinical environments. The toolbox supports companies throughout the entire innovation process, from initial concept to clinical deployment.

Project funding

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