Scientists at the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT) have used 3D printing to develop a new type of artificial muscle that can better mimic the movements of the human hand and lift 1,000 times more weight. This breakthrough opens the door to the next generation of robotics, bringing us one step closer to making a real Luke Skywalker prosthesis.
Scientists have long searched for a way to simulate the movements of the human hand, but have yet to create an actuator that can move with the same grace and complexity. Most replicas are either too hard or not strong enough for practical use. However, Dr. Corrado De Pascali and his colleagues from IIT have recently developed a new type of artificial actuator using a single 3D printed monolithic component. The result is more flexible and stronger than the previous generation of artificial muscles and can move like a human.
Their new artificial muscle, which they call the GeometRy-based Retraction and Elongation Actuator (GRACE), is able to stretch and contract like a human. The actuators were designed using mathematical models and 3D printed using flexible photopolymer resins. Their biggest adaptation to previous designs was the addition of folds to the muscles, allowing them to curl and unfold, providing greater strength and flexibility than other artificial muscles. A single 8-gram actuator can lift 8kg.
GRACE-driven actuators in robotic hands mimic human motion
The team has since further explored the function of the artificial muscle and combined 18 actuators of different sizes into a robotic hand. Impressively, the device is capable of twisting the palm, rotating the wrist, and flexing the fingers by applying force from different parts of the opponent.
Still, the scientists noted, "it is still difficult to reproduce the 'functionality and elegance' afforded by the complex arrangement of muscles in the human body." However, the actuators are still a vast improvement over previous techniques.
More research is needed before these artificial muscles see robust implementation, but one area of research of particular interest is resin formulation. There is great potential for these types of devices, and if resins can improve strength and flexibility, the range of applications for these artificial muscles could be expanded further.
These new 3D-printed muscles will undoubtedly go hand in hand with other improvements we've seen recently in prosthetics and robotics advancements. While not perfect, we're excited to see where the technology goes from here. One day, the technology may even be used to make your personal 3D-printed Luke Skywalker prosthesis when we inevitably break our hands while playing with lightsabers.