For centuries, farriery has been considered a traditional craft. But now a paradigm shift is taking place as advanced technology enters the scene. Through the collaboration between Sigma Technology Insight Solutions and Guldhov EquiTech AB the horse industry is taking a big step into a new era where AI and 3D modeling is at the center.

This partnership shows how even the most established and manually characterized industries can be transformed into data-driven, efficient and precision-based processes.

Guldhov – from education to groundbreaking technology company

Guldhov EquiTech AB founded in 2018 by Mia Guldhov. Originally, the business was focused on spreading knowledge about horse care through education, but the company has since developed into a pioneer in 3D printed horseshoes.

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By using digital scanning and additive manufacturing horseshoes are created that are completely adapted to each horse's unique hoof anatomy. The result is shoes with a better fit, greater comfort and a reduced risk of injury.

With patents in both Sweden, the EU and the USA, Guldhov has consolidated its position as an international innovator.

Sigma Technology Insight Solutions – expert in AI and data

To realize the vision, Guldhov needed a technical partner with deep expertise in AI, data analysis and 3D modelingThe choice fell on Sigma Technology Insight Solutions, part of the Sigma Technology Group.

The company is known for developing dynamic AI solutions used in everything from manufacturing and energy to life science and digital services. In the project with Guldhov, they have built a Blender-based deformation system which can adapt to scanned hoof models and create finished shoe models ready for 3D printing.

– “This project is a clear example of how technology, data and 3D modeling can revolutionize even the most traditional industries,” says Robert Aberg, CEO of Sigma Technology Insight Solutions.
– “We are proud to support Guldhov in bringing precision and efficiency to hoof care and we see this as a model for how AI can strengthen craftsmanship and care.”

Efficiency in practice – from 12 hours to 20 minutes

The most tangible effect of the new solution is the time savings. Previously, it could take up to 12 hours to create a digital model for a customized horseshoe. With the new technology, the working time is reduced to under 20 minutes per shoe, excluding manual quality control.

This not only means more efficient workflows for farriers, but also:

• Better fit which reduces the risk of hoof-related problems.
• Increased availability on specially adapted shoes for more horse owners.
• Higher precision in manufacturing using data-driven processes.

The team has already delivered a working prototype that includes guideline documents, prototype files, and an extensive photo library documenting the entire development process.

Voices from the industry

For Mia Guldhov, this means the collaboration is a confirmation of the company's vision about uniting tradition with technology:

– “This collaboration has been a significant step forward for us and the entire farriery industry. By combining our expertise with Sigma Technology’s technical knowledge, we have been able to create a solution that not only saves time, but also makes it possible to give horses better-fitting shoes than ever before. It is amazing to see how technology and tradition can come together to create something groundbreaking,” she says.

The role of technology in animal care and sustainability

The new solution is not just about efficiency. It is also part of a larger development in sustainable animal care and precision technologyBy using 3D modeling and AI can farriers work more resource and time saving, which can ultimately lead to better animal health and more sustainable horse nutrition.

For Sigma Technology, the project is also part of the company's broader strategy to demonstrate how data-driven technology can be applied in various industriesSimilar solutions are already in use in manufacturing, energy and life science, and farriery is another example of the limitless possibilities of technology.

A model for future collaborations

The partnership between Sigma Technology Insight Solutions and Guldhov EquiTech shows how interdisciplinary collaboration can create new innovations. When deep industry knowledge meets advanced technology arises solutions that can change the rules of the game for an entire sector.

With continued development and more prototypes, the model can potentially be scaled up and used in other areas of veterinary care and animal health.