Rex quickly grew in scope from an idea to become a real-life pair of robotic legs that enables you to stand up, walk, move sideways, turn around, go up and down steps as well as walk on flat hard surfaces including ramps and slopes.
One of the many challenges Rex Bionics faced was to prototype the outer skin components of the robotic device with some very specific requirements.
Rex Bionics approached 3D Systems Asia-Pacific to prototype the components. 3D Systems' team faced a number of prototyping challenges, for example - cover’s that were highly complex containing moving parts, had to be highly accurate, waterproof and aesthetically pleasing.
Due to its strength and durability, Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), additively manufactured parts produced from Nylon 11 were selected for the covers of the ankle, knee, leg and hip joints. Secondary processes were also applied to improve the quality of the surface finish and overall appearance.
The method of production changed from SLS to Silicone Tooling and Vacuum Casting as the requirements grew from a couple of units to larger quantities over time.
Outcome:
Exoskeleton medical device has taken seven years of development work and is now capable of supporting the full weight of a person. It is simple enough for disabled users to self-transfer in and out of and to operate the robotic legs a joystick and control pad are used. Available now in New Zealand with an international launch underway.
"The covers that 3D Systems Asia-Pacific has created for Rex have certainly done their job and we’ve had plenty of positive comments about them." Thomas Mitchell, Rex Bionics.
-205x205.jpg)
-205x205.jpg)
