A revolution in robotics: German scientists have created an anatomically accurate copy of a human hand using a 3D printer
Scientists from ETH Zürich have presented the latest achievement in 3D printing – a robotic arm that impresses with its anatomical accuracy and unique design.
This innovation consists of bones, ligaments, and tendons made of different flexible polymers, which opens up prospects for various applications.
Researchers from ETH Zurich and the American startup Inkbit have made a significant contribution to the development of 3D printing technology by developing new methods that allow printing objects using slow-hardening plastics. Now it is possible to combine soft, elastic and rigid materials to create more complex shapes.
The hand is created using slow-curing thiolene polymers that provide outstanding elastic properties. The printing process effectively circumvents the problems associated with curing slow-curing plastics by using lasers to 3D scan each layer and automatically correct for irregularities.
Prof. Robert Katzschmann notes the advantages of soft robots, such as the created arm, compared to traditional metal structures. Soft robots like this one reduce the risk of injury when interacting with people and are better suited for handling fragile objects.
These technological advances are enabling researchers to expand the scope of robots, making them safer and more versatile in areas requiring sensitivity and flexibility.
