Overview

• The Flex Printer can be assembled for under £400 using readily available components.
• Printed four-legged robots are made entirely from soft plastic and begin walking once connected to a compressed air supply.
• Researchers have released the printer’s blueprints and software publicly to democratize soft robotics development.
• First-time users can build and operate the Flex Printer within days thanks to its intuitive design.
• Soft robots created by the system offer potential for nuclear decommissioning, minimally invasive surgery, rehabilitation and space applications.