Farriery has been regarded for centuries as a traditional craft. Now, however, a paradigm shift is underway as advanced technology enters the scene. Through the collaboration between Sigma Technology Insight Solutions and Guldhov EquiTech AB, the equine industry is taking a major step into a new era centered on AI and 3D modeling.
This partnership demonstrates how even deeply established, manual trades can be transformed into data-driven, efficient and precision-based processes.
Guldhov – from training to pioneering technology company
Guldhov EquiTech AB was founded in 2018 by Mia Guldhov. The company began by sharing expertise in hoof care through education, but has evolved into a pioneer in 3D‑printed horseshoes.
Using digital scanning and additive manufacturing, Guldhov produces horseshoes custom‑fitted to each horse’s unique hoof anatomy. The result is better fit, increased comfort and a reduced risk of injury.
With patents in Sweden, the EU and the US, Guldhov has established itself as an international innovator.
Sigma Technology Insight Solutions – AI and data expertise
To realize this vision, Guldhov needed a technical partner with deep expertise in AI, data analysis and 3D modeling. They chose Sigma Technology Insight Solutions, part of the Sigma Technology Group.
The company is known for developing dynamic AI solutions used across manufacturing, energy, life sciences and digital services. For the Guldhov project they built a Blender‑based deformation system capable of adapting to scanned hoof models and producing final 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 Åberg, 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 animal care.”
Practical efficiency – from 12 hours to 20 minutes
The most tangible benefit of the new solution is time savings. Previously, creating a digital model for a custom horseshoe could take up to 12 hours. With the new system, the time is reduced to under 20 minutes per shoe, excluding manual quality checks.
That improvement not only streamlines farriers’ workflows, but also delivers:
- Better fit that lowers the risk of hoof‑related problems.
- Greater accessibility to customized shoes for more horse owners.
- Higher precision in manufacturing through 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, the collaboration confirms the company’s vision of combining tradition with technology:
“This collaboration has been a significant step forward for us and for the entire farriery sector. By combining our expertise with Sigma Technology’s technical competence, we have created a solution that not only saves time but also allows us to provide horses with better‑fitting shoes than ever before. It’s inspiring to see how technology and tradition can come together to create something groundbreaking,” she says.
Technology’s role in animal care and sustainability
The new solution is not just about efficiency. It also contributes to broader developments in sustainable animal care and precision technology. By using 3D modeling and AI, farriers can work in a more resource‑ and time‑efficient way, which can ultimately improve animal health and support a more sustainable equine industry.
For Sigma Technology, the project aligns with a wider strategy to demonstrate how data‑driven technology can be applied across industries. Similar solutions are already used in manufacturing, energy and life sciences, and farriery is another example of the technology’s broad potential.
A model for future collaborations
The partnership between Sigma Technology Insight Solutions and Guldhov EquiTech illustrates how cross‑disciplinary collaboration can generate new innovations. When deep industry knowledge meets advanced technology, solutions emerge that can change the rules for an entire sector.
With continued development and additional prototypes, the model could potentially be scaled and adapted for other areas of veterinary care and animal health.