This 3D-Printed Robotic Hand Has Functional Tendons
Researchers from MIT and ETH Zurich have developed a method of dual 3D printing that can produce hard (in this case, bones) and more elastic elements (the tendons) in a single printing process. The bones are printed using a resin that hardens when exposed to UV rays, while the tendons are printed using a softer elastic polymer, building up layers of each as the object is constructed.
The new printing technology isn’t just for making hands; it can be used to connect any hard elements together with flexible connectors like those found in the legs, neck, and gripper elements of the hexapod seen above. And all in a single printing process! The future of 3D printing nears!
Obviously, being able to produce functional robots without the need for additional human construction will be key to Skynet’s ability to overthrow the human race. Otherwise, they wouldn’t be able to multiply their numbers without human sympathizers, and I’ve already created a watch list.
[via TechEBlog]