Holland Hybrid Heart
Heart failure (HF) is a major global health challenge, with millions of patients worldwide and limited treatment options for advanced stages. Current solutions, such as heart transplantation and mechanical circulatory support devices, are constrained by donor shortages, risks, and limited suitability—especially for pediatric patients. As a result, many patients face poor outcomes and reduced quality of life while waiting for treatment.
The Hybrid Heart project introduces a groundbreaking alternative: a biocompatible, soft robotic artificial heart designed to fully replace the failing organ. This “Hybrid Heart” combines a soft robotic textile-based shell with artificial muscles and sensors, enabling natural heart motion, and a tissue-engineered inner lining to ensure compatibility with the patient’s blood. The system also includes scaffolds for in-situ tissue growth and a wireless energy transfer system, allowing patients greater mobility without external hardware.
A key innovation lies in the integration of soft robotics, tissue engineering, and textile engineering. Saxion’s Sustainable & Functional Textiles group contributes by developing textile-based structures using advanced production techniques such as embroidery, ultrasonic welding, and 3D knitting. These methods aim to replicate the mechanical properties of the human heart while ensuring durability and flexibility.
The project is highly interdisciplinary, with engineers, medical professionals, and design experts collaborating closely to ensure functionality, safety, and user-centered design. The technology may also have broader applications in other artificial organs and soft robotic systems.
The Hybrid Heart project is led by Erasmus MC and involves a wide consortium including Eindhoven University of Technology, AMOLF, University of Twente, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, TU Delft, Maastricht University, and several industry and healthcare partners. It is funded by the NWA-ORC program. The project contact is Eliza Bottenberg.
