Japanese researchers have developed a biohybrid robotic hand using human muscle tissue. The robotic hand, created by a joint research team from the University of Tokyo and Waseda University, operates with human skeletal muscle cultivated in a laboratory and features natural movements distinct from traditional mechanical robotic hands.
The team developed a robotic hand that is 18 cm in length with a palm size of 6 cm, implementing five fingers that can move independently. The hand operates by receiving electrical stimulation through waterproof cables while submerged in nutrient-rich culture medium. Experimentally, it developed muscle fatigue after about 10 minutes of continuous movement but was able to recover functionality after receiving nutrition for an hour.
The core technology of this robotic hand is the ‘Multi-Muscle Tissue Actuators (MuMuTAs)’ developed by the research team. It is made by bundling thin muscle strands to form tendons, overcoming the nutritional supply limitations that were problematic in previous bio-robot research. This allows for stronger contraction strength, enabling precise movements such as individual finger manipulation and gripping small objects.
The research team plans to continue developing the technology to improve muscle strength, allowing the robotic hand to lift heavier objects. If this technology is applied to the production of advanced prosthetics, it could aid in restoring movement in amputees and be utilized in developing humanoid robots that mimic human movements.
The biohybrid technology can also be applied in the treatment of neuromuscular disorders and the development of new drugs, garnering attention not only in the field of robotics but also in the medical and rehabilitation sectors in the future.