EU: inspiring innovation through 3D-printed robot

The European Union (EU) said that it has a 3D-printed robot ready to be introduced in schools to cultivate the creativity of students studying mechanics, computer sciences, electronics and 3D printing.

The first completely open-source, 3D-printed, humanoid robot, named 'Poppy', is controlled by freely available software, meaning users can design body parts quickly and easily, and programme their robot's behaviour themselves, Xinhua reported.

The EU said Tuesday the new robot's feature of accessible, open-source hardware and software makes it easy for users to experiment with building their own robots for the first time.

According to the EU, Poppy is now also compatible with the Arduino platform, which allows the robot to interface with other electronic devices, including smart clothing, lights, sensors and musical instruments.

Moreover, Poppy will allow users to share their ideas and results in a collaborative way through a web platform that encourages people to interface across disciplines.

The robot's creator plans to extend the use of this technology beyond research labs to the educational sector.

Commenting on the Poppy initiative, EU Commissioner for research, innovation and science, Maire Geoghegan-Quinn said: "This is a great offshoot of an European Research Council project: a low-cost platform that could foster a more interactive and inspiring learning environment".