Articulated 3-D-Printed Hand (IMAGE) Harvard University Caption A new software tool translates animated character skins into action figures that can be produced on a 3-D printer. The software uses a series of optimization techniques to generate the best possible model, incorporating both hinges and ball-and-socket joints. It also builds some friction into these surfaces so that the printed figure will be able to hold its poses. Credit Photo courtesy of Moritz Bacher Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.