EleBot the revolutionary 3D printed elephant robot
When creating the robotic elephant researchers from Switzerland's EPFL University used special 3D printed 'tissues'. These 'tissues' are what makes EleBot so special.The scientists used a "lattice structure" to build the robot - this makes it strong yet also able to move smoothly and perform actions like picking flowers or kicking a ball.This is an important step for engineers in creating robots that can move like real animals.
By using the special structure and technology scientists were able to build the robotic elephant with a soft trunk that can twist, bend and rotate.Before this, scientists have struggled to recreate the complex arrangement of muscles and bones of living animals.The use of 3D printing shows how technology can be used to create muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones that have a vast range of motion.Something that is an exciting development for the future of robots.
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