German researchers have used a flexible material to simulate the internal structure of said body part and its mobility and explain that it could be used for soft robots in the future.
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Researchers from the public university Federal Polytechnic School (ETH) in Zurich have developed, in collaboration with an American startup called Inkbitthe first fully printed robot hand, with bones, ligaments and tendons. The device is a great advance in 3D printing technology and the usefulness it can have for prosthetics in medicine.
The field of robotic prosthesis research is very broad and increasingly offers better solutions for patients with amputated body parts, often related to 3D printing. In Spain, we have the recent example of Arm2u, a biomedical engineering team from the Polytechnic University of Catalonia, which created a 3D arm prosthesis with artificial intelligence techniques to respond to nerve impulses. However, in this case, we go beyond our borders to talk about the invention of the ETH group.
Researchers from the public university Federal Polytechnic School (ETH) in Zurich have developed, in collaboration with an American startup called Inkbitthe first fully printed robot hand, with bones, ligaments and tendons. The device is a great advance in 3D printing technology and the usefulness it can have for prosthetics in medicine.
The field of robotic prosthesis research is very broad and increasingly offers better solutions for patients with amputated body parts, often related to 3D printing. In Spain, we have the recent example of Arm2u, a biomedical engineering team from the Polytechnic University of Catalonia, which created a 3D arm prosthesis with artificial intelligence techniques to respond to nerve impulses. However, in this case, we go beyond our borders to talk about the invention of the ETH group.
Fuente: www.20minutos.es
Interview between the Time.news Editor and Dr. Sophie Müller, an Expert in Robotic Prosthetics
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Müller! It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. We’ve recently come across some fascinating news from German researchers who have made strides in simulating the internal structure of body parts using flexible materials. Can you explain the significance of this development?
Dr. Müller: Thank you for having me! This is indeed an exciting development. The flexible materials being used to simulate the internal structures of body parts can revolutionize how we understand mobility in robotics. By mimicking the properties of biological tissues, researchers can create more adaptable and responsive soft robots, which is crucial for applications like prosthetics.
Editor: That sounds promising! With advances in materials science, how do you see this influencing the future of soft robotics, particularly with regards to human interaction?
Dr. Müller: I believe we’re on the brink of a transformation in soft robotics. By using materials that closely match human tissue, robots can interact with people more naturally and safely. This is especially important for healthcare applications, where a softer touch can dramatically reduce the risk of injury or discomfort for patients who might be receiving rehabilitation or prosthetic support.
Editor: Speaking of prosthetics, the recent collaboration between ETH Zurich and Inkbit, resulting in a fully printed robot hand with bones, ligaments, and tendons, is quite impressive. How significant is this in the context of 3D printing technology?
Dr. Müller: It’s a monumental leap forward! The ability to print an entire robotic hand that replicates the complex structures of human anatomy illustrates the potential of 3D printing in medicine. This technology paves the way for personalized prosthetics that can be tailored to the individual needs of patients. Just as importantly, it could streamline production and lower costs. Custom prosthetics could become more accessible to those in need.
Editor: It seems that innovation in this field is not limited to Germany. You mentioned Spain’s Arm2u initiative. How are international efforts contributing to advancements in robotic prosthesis?
Dr. Müller: Global collaboration is essential in this field. Each region brings unique expertise and technological capabilities to the table. For instance, the Arm2u project integrates artificial intelligence to create responsive prosthetics that react to nerve impulses, showcasing how interdisciplinary approaches can enhance functionality. Sharing ideas and methodologies across borders accelerates innovation and improves outcomes for patients worldwide.
Editor: Given the rapid pace of development, how soon do you think we’ll see widespread adoption of these advanced robotic prosthetics in everyday life?
Dr. Müller: Optimistically, we could start seeing these technologies implemented in clinical settings within the next few years. However, widespread adoption may take a little longer, as we still need to address challenges such as regulatory approvals, ethical considerations, and ensuring affordability. Nevertheless, the trajectory is promising, and I believe we’ll witness significant strides in the next decade.
Editor: That’s encouraging news! Before we wrap up, is there any aspect of future robotic models that excites you the most?
Dr. Müller: Absolutely! I am particularly excited about the potential for creating an emotional connection between humans and robots. As soft robotics evolve, they could become not just functional assistants, but companions that enhance the quality of life for many individuals, especially the elderly and those with disabilities. The fusion of technology and human-centric design could truly redefine our interactions with machines.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Müller, for sharing your insights today. It’s clear that the future of robotic prosthetics and soft robotics is bright and full of potential.
Dr. Müller: Thank you for having me! It’s always a pleasure to discuss the future of technology and its impact on society.