Prosthetic robotics have made significant advances in movement and precision, but today many projects are exploring different ways to cut costs and bring their designs to as many people as possible. The HACKberry robotic hand aims to achieve this through an open source platform in hardware and software, 3D printed parts, a smartphone acting as the brain, and camera batteries as a power source.
There is still much to accomplish, but in recent months it has felt like science, and especially robotics is winning the game. Just look at some people controlling their robotic arms with their minds, or leaving their wheelchairs to move with the help of an exoskeleton. I imagine that over time we will be able to develop the ability to restore what was lost or damaged at a biological level. Until then, we must continue on the advanced prosthetics path, with a high level of movement and flexibility. A critical parameter in the development of any prosthetic is cost. It's sad to admit, but not everyone can access them, and that's something that needs to be corrected as soon as possible. Lowering the cost of a prosthetic without losing functionality may seem contradictory at first glance, but the Japanese company exii dove headfirst into that challenge, and the result is HACKberry.
The Technology Behind HACKberry
The first essential element in the HACKberry robotic hand is 3D printing. This not only makes it easier to share its design, but also to quickly create replacement parts. Then there's a smartphone. We've said it many times: today's smartphones are basically pocket computers, and the HACKberry hand uses all that available processing power to handle commands without issues. Finally, there's the software, which according to the company will be completely open, along with the blueprints of the robotic hand and any other relevant information.
Picking up small jars, turning magazine pages, zipping up a jacket, and even tying shoelaces demonstrate the impressive level of precision of the HACKberry hand.
The company has said the prototype cost $300. However, the final price will depend on additional details such as the manufacturing process, shipping, and taxes. In other words, exii intends to sell the HACKberry hand, but needs to adjust some nuts and bolts first.
