This Engineering Newswire looks at designing an all-terrain knee for all walks of life, getting a new point of view on SpaceX’s pad abort test and mimicking Mickey Mouse’s movements.
Moving Like Mickey Mouse
Disney researchers have successfully designed a robotic frame that mimics Mickey Mouse’s motions using 3D-printed links and servo motors, all the while being able to fit inside the character's skin.
They then created control software to keep the robot balanced while mimicking the character's gait as closely as possible. However the researchers did encounter some issues along the way, cartoons are cartoons and their motions don’t always translate well to reality.
All-Terrain Knee for All Walks of Life
An infusion of government and private Canadian cash will make it possible for LegWorks to mass produce its innovative, affordable prosthetic knee, the All-Terrain Knee or AT-Knee. And make it more available in developing countries.
The durable, and, better yet, affordable prosthetic knee joint was developed at Toronto's Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital. Its patented design enables lower-limb amputees to walk more efficiently and comfortably. And it can even stand up to harsh environments, even water.
SpaceX Pad Abort POV
Last week, SpaceX uploaded this point of view video of the pad abort test of its Crew Dragon spacecraft. During the test, the Dragon went from 0 to 100 miles per hour in 1.2 seconds, and reached a max velocity of 345 miles per hour.
The test simulated how astronauts would survive if tragedy struck on the launch pad. The abort system is powered by eight SuperDraco engines which together produce 120,000 pounds of axial thrust. The engines are integrated directly into the sides of the vehicle rather than carried on top of the vehicle as with previous launch abort systems.
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