ROBOTIC LIMBS CHANGE LIVES

DISCOVER THE BODY-ENHANCING BIONICS THAT CAN GIVE HUMANS AND ANIMALS A NEW LEASE ON LIFE

WHILE SOME ROBOTS ARE INTENDED TO ASSIST HUMANS, ROBOTICS can also reproduce realistic limb-like functions for those that have lost arms, legs and other parts of their bodies. These prosthetics have existed in one form or another since at least ancient Egyptian times.

5 Uses for robotic arms

1 Factory efficiency

Using robotic arms on factory lines makes manufacturing more reliable and timelier. They also remove the chance of injury when handling dangerous materials.

2 Limbs in space

The International Space Station [ISS] has three robotic arms on board. These can be controlled from inside the station to install, remove and replace ISS parts, and to conduct scientific experiments.

3 Automotive workers

Robotic arms are used to weld metal together in automotive factories as well as for applying consistent coats of paint, cutting material and thoroughly polishing items.

4 Agriculture

There are many repetitive, strenuous tasks required for a farm to run efficiently. This includes picking and packing crops and planting seeds. Some farm-bound robotic arms have built-in sensors, helping them accurately carry out these roles.

5 Laboratory helpers

Many experiments and processes are carried out in large batches. To make test-tube dispensing, -labelling and -capping quicker, robots can be used to make dispensing accurate and reduce human error.

Adopting a third thumb

Humans have opposable thumbs. These allow us to hold, grip and manipulate objects. If someone is born without a thumb, or loses one, thumb prosthetics can be strapped on to their hand to aid them.