# Key Points from IRC Log

• A fluidically controlled robotic arm for amputees was mentioned, representing an advancement in prosthetic technology.

• The NIH was reported to be investing $12.2 million in developing a social network for scientists, with some skepticism expressed about its potential success.

• RepRap 3D printing developments were discussed in detail, with users reporting success printing Mendel parts using PLA plastic rather than ABS, noting PLA's superior qualities for this application.

• A user shared plans to scale up PLA filament production, starting with 200 pounds of material and potentially expanding to 1000 pounds, with the eventual goal of purchasing equipment for in-house production.

• The Michigan RepRap Users Group (MiRUG) was mentioned as fostering significant RepRap activity in Michigan, with approximately 20 machines in various stages of completion and plans to have all members' machines operational by mid-2020.

• Realistic RepRap replication timelines were discussed, with estimates ranging from two weeks to one month to print all necessary parts, plus additional time for purchasing components, building electronics, programming, and assembly.

• A user mentioned plans to establish a hackerspace in Grand Rapids, Michigan, sharing a 10,000 square foot warehouse space with their plastic extrusion operation.

• Various technical resources were shared, including the Festival text-to-speech synthesis library and optical illusions like the Lilac Chaser.