THE ADVENT of the 3D printer has been revolutionising our world. From mannequins to masterpieces, suddenly anything seems possible as engineers push the capabilities of the emerging technology.

A world away from the laboratory, the impact it can have is shown in the excitement at the Nott house.

Brave Charlotte has been coping with a string of clunky, expensive prosthetics since the lower parts of her arms and legs were amputated four years ago after she battled with meningitis.

But the six-year-old’s life could be transformed by a new robotic arm made using a 3D printer.

It is amazing to think the cost of her freedom and independence could be as little as £1,200. Her imagination must be running wild with the possibilities of doing things most of us take for granted.

Bristol-based company Open Bionic should be lauded for exploring a way to adapt the 3D printer to address something so important for so many people.

The Oxford Mail hopes when they measure Charlotte, this bubbly little girl will be eligible for the robotic arm.

The firm has called them ‘superhero arms’, but it is the engineers who will be superheroes in Charlotte’s eyes if she is fitted with the devices.