Australian 3D printing service GoProto ANZ is understandably excited to be working on a project for Sentient Bionics Pty Ltd, a company that develops anthropomorphic robotic grippers for a range of industries, including healthcare. Through the partnership, GoProto is leveraging its HP Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) 3D printing technology to produce high-end functional parts for Sentient Bionics’ body-powered Sentient Prosthetic Hand.

The Sentient Prosthetic Hand is an anthropomorphic robotic hand which features multi-articulated fingers and a rotatable thumb, The human-like robot is even capable of adaptive grasping. The 3D printed components produced by GoProto, which make up major parts of the bionic prosthetic device, are more durable, higher performing and more cost effective than more traditional components.

Multi Jet Fusion was the 3D printing technology of choice because it reportedly enabled GoProto to deliver parts with superior performance and a lower cost compared to other 3D printing processes. Once printed, robot components were all subjected to tensile testing, which not only showcased MJF’s ability to achieve batch to batch consistency, but also that the bionic hand parts could meet the necessary performance requirements for Sentient Bionics’ application.

“We’re thrilled with the outcome for Sentient, the process control measures we have in place enables us to deliver repeatable part quality across various applications,” said Leon Gainrs, GoProto General Manager.  “Our fast development time allowed Sentient Bionics to start clinical trials and quickly respond to feedback with innovative and progressive design changes.” 

Going forward, the Australian companies will continue their collaboration, with GoProto providing its expert 3D printing services to Sentient Bionics as it focuses increasingly on the development of collaborative robot grippers, including affordable bionic hands with inbuilt actuators and accompanying software.

GoProto ANZ, part of GoProto Inc., has also been leveraging its HP 3D printing technology to support COVID-19 relief efforts through the production of face shields, nasopharyngeal swabs, hands-free door openers and more. The 3D printing service is part of HP’s global digital manufacturing network.

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