Robots are showing up in more places from bomb disposable to drones. Getting robots to take on more tasks often requires using a better hand, or, in the case of robots, a robotic hand. Check out these videos on articulate robots we have seen. You can find more on Engineering TV's Robotics/Automation channel.
MK-1 Robotic Arm Capable of Near-Human Dexterity and Disco Dancing
The MK-1 Robotic Arm from HDT Global comes from a DARPA sponsored project to create a highly advanced prosthetic limb. The disco dance moves shown at the beginning of this video show off the impressive dexterity of the modular servo units that comprise the MK-1 Robotic Arm.
HDT Global's servos and arms have been used in a wide range of robots. Its modular approach provides easy updates and is ideal of research as well as production.
Robotic Arm uses Arduino and EEG Thought Control for Fine Motor Control
What can you do with an Arduino? Easton LaChappelle, a student at Mancos High School, Mancos, CO, used it with a robotic prosthesis he created. He also tied these together with an EEG headset for fine motor control. It won him a second place Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) award in Engineering: Electrical and Mechanical, and an International Council on Systems Engineering award.
Festo: ExoHand
Providing a new scope for interaction between humans and machines, the ExoHand from Festo is an exoskeleton that can be worn like a glove. The fingers can be actively moved and their strength amplified; the operator’s hand movements are registered and transmitted to the robotic hand in real time.The Autonomy of Robonaut
The first Robonaut was designed to be an autonomous helper to astronauts during space walks. In today's episode, we'll look at how NASA scientists and engineers are working toward that goal.
We have seen Robonaut 2 in action as well (see “These Robots Are No Danger, Will Robinson”). Robonaut 2 is now on the Internal Space Station. It has a new addition, legs. More on that in the future.