Combining Robotics And 3D Printing

Australian Researchers Combine Robotics and 3D Printing to Design a Prosthetic That Could Restore the Sense of Touch

Clare Scott | June 15, 2016

Prosthetic limbs have come a long way in a very short amount of time. Not long ago, prosthetic hands and arms were clunky, awkward and limited in function. Now, thanks to 3D printing, prosthetics can be quickly and easily custom-fit and even specially designed for functions like playing basketball or swimming. People who have lost limbs are no longer limited in what they can do, as 3D printed prosthetics continue to develop and offer function and mobility that rival that of a natural limb.
One thing that prosthetics haven’t really managed to do yet, though, is restore the sense of touch.

"Robotic arm that could give amputees the sensation of touch being tested in Melbourne." Source: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-05-28/robotic-arm-that-sends-receives-brain-signals-tested-st-vincents/7455874

<more at http://www.orthospinenews.com/australian-researchers-combine-robotics-and-3d-printing-to-design-a-prosthetic-that-could-restore-the-sense-of-touch/; related articles and links: http://www.techtimes.com/articles/161738/20160529/new-robotic-arm-may-help-restore-sensation-of-touch-to-amputees.htm (New Robotic Arm May Help Restore Sensation Of Touch To Amputees. May 29, 2016) and http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-05-28/robotic-arm-that-sends-receives-brain-signals-tested-st-vincents/7455874 (+Video) (Robotic arm that could give amputees the sensation of touch being tested in Melbourne. May 27, 2016)>