3D printed robot MARC to be showcased at UK engineering event this week

Scientists from Lincoln University are trying out a humanoid robot which was developed with 3D printing technology.  They hope it help them create a new wave of androids with which it will be more comfortable for humans to deal with. Originally the robot was created by Gael Langevin, who invented the first open source 3D printed life-size robot InMoov.

A Multi-Actuated Robotic Companion, known as MARC, was created by Dr John Murray from the School of Computer Science at Lincoln University, UK. This is one of two robots that help scientists find out how to develop long-term relationships between humans and android robots.

This research and the platforms used in it are very expensive because of the material prices and their intricacy. But researchers find it possible to create complicated robotic platforms at lower costs.

The team are going to install personalities and characteristics based on human relationships. If they manage to program the robot understand the development of human relationships, they’ll understand how to plan human-robot relationships.

The scientists are also going to develop a control with which a user will direct the robot through communication of a PC with the arduino board. They compiled the controller C# and it controls clusters through panels. On the diagram the user will choose the part of the body to move. The diagram will make the robot control the chosen robot body part.

The scientists hope that robots like this will help the elderly, or children suffering from attachment disorder or autism. They will make good companions for such people. Still the robots they have now have little human characteristics, which prevents them from dealing with people.

Among the attractions at the annual gathering dedicated to encouraging young engineers and manufacturers there will the 3D printed robot. MARC is expected to deal with visitors at the Get up to Speed with Engineering and Manufacturing event in Sheffield, UK on Tuesday, 8th April. The event is a good opportunity for all of us to watch the fundamental design and manufacturing employed in various innovative technologies. The free event will take place from 10am to 5.30pm at The Blue Shed in Brightside Lane, Sheffield, UK.

Dr Murray is also going to exhibit 3D printed quadrocopters – the freshest sensation in aerial remote control aircraft. The guests will be able to watch the on-board movie as they video the event and learn how to construct and fly these engines.

Dr Murray noticed that this showcased their research. They view it as a way to show the young that subjects like Engineering and Computer Science that frightening as they seem. As soon as you learn how to deal with MARC and operate the quadrocopters you will notice that they are a lot of fun.