The Evolution of Medical Technologies Yields Life-changing Results
During Machine Design’s medical devices takeover week (Feb. 24-March 2, 2025), contributors were asked to submit content pertaining only to this niche. The rush of content—ranging from articles, videos and Q&As—brought together perspectives from decision-makers and subject matter experts whose careers and livelihoods depend on transforming not only the medical devices industry, but the individual lives they ultimately serve.
This content represents a mere sliver of what could be relevant at this point in time. There are an estimated 2 million different kinds of medical devices on the world market, categorized into more than 7,000 generic devices groups by the World Health Organization.
Our sources confirm, however, that the demand for new technology is underpinned by key drivers such as the adoption of artificial intelligence and machine learning. These advancements, in turn, support the transition to personalized and precision medicine, as well as sustainable design and production practices. The challenges—regulatory requirements, cost of R&D, supply chain disruptions and geopolitical uncertainties—are not new, but their intensity constrain overall value creation and profitability.
If covering the engineering behind medical devices ever feels routine, it’s a sign we need to look closer—because innovation, creativity and breakthrough ideas are always unfolding. In our cover story, Machine Design’s technical editor, Sharon Spielman, relays the story of the Living Heart Project, which brings into reality the first simulated 3D heart model, or virtual twin, in a clinical setting. The work achieved by Dr. Steve Levine in creating a virtual twin of his daughter Jesse’s heart is nothing short of remarkable and pioneers the adoption of computational modeling and simulation into cardiovascular medicine.
Spielman also filed a story about a fully robotic surgery that helped save an engineer’s life. CGI’s Lance Brown, a designer of gears for small power transmissions in robotics, said he couldn’t have known the role the gears would one day play for his own daughter Vanessa.
“Serendipity in design illuminates the beauty of invention and innovation in engineering, where unexpected designs become literal lifelines,” reflected Spielman.
These are powerful stories that both inspire and reinforce the significance of our work.
Let us know if you have a similar story to share. Reach me directly at [email protected].
