This article is a work in progress

• Design (work in progress)
• (Older model & description)

Essentially a deluxe manipulator, the Manus is a step above standard manipulators, packing conveyance systems, internal hardpoints and an unheard of level of dexterity.

Inspired by the somewhat unusual hand-choices made by Sourcians in captivity, the Manus is a symmetrical design which is functionally and aesthetically able to mimic conventional designs but possesses a far higher degree of grip, dexterity and control than any conventional hand.

This is achieved by joints which can surpass human limitations, essentially turning any pair of fingers into a functional claw - either the two thumbs or the upper fingers. Noteworthy is the fact that any of these fingers can be split in half for finer manipulation tasks or to grab multiple objects at once.

Designer: Lazarus Consortium Manufacturer: Lazarus Consortium (Suggested) Price: 17500 KS. Individual Component Costs:

• Gravitic centrifuges:
• Magnetic confinement systems:

• Name: Manus Model 201-A
• Type: Advanced Cybernetic Manipulator for humanoid use
• Model: LAZ-PHAS/201A
• Role: Multi-function tool, cybernetic augmentation
• Length: Varying
• Weight: (decide)
• Maximum Pressure:
• Capacity/Load:

• Name: Manus Model 201-B
• Type: Advanced Cybernetic Manipulator for humanoid use
• Model: LAZ-RHYS/201B
• Role: Multi-function tool, cybernetic augmentation
• Length: Varying
• Weight: (decide)
• Capacity/Load:

Developed from the Magnetically Contained Charged Plasma Saber and the Compressed Packet Rifle, the magnetically confined transmission system allows for the bidirectional transfer of any particles, liquids or gasses which or plasma require magnetic induction to handle safely, between storage tanks linked beyond the wrist from the fingertips and palm-links. In addition, a basic accelerator system similar to that found in most charged plasma weapons is also included. Since the device also uses centrifuges, it is possible to fire a compressed antimatter packet - though the size of the round and its yield would be much lower than that of a dedicated weapon.

In the smaller version, this is also possible but the resulting gamma-radiation from combat ranges and high recoil would most likely kill any unshielded organic life connected.

It is important to note that while the device can do all this, it contains no weapons-systems of its own and requires a source in order to work.

Used in every major joint of the Manus, the magnets of the Gravitic Centrifuge are also used as a form of feedback to drive joints with extremely fine control with varying tolerances and levels of pressure or 'fight' to prevent common pitfalls of manipulation systems, such as the ease of crushing an object. While this increases the units expense, it also greatly improves its capabilities with those of the centrifuge.

The joints possess a response-time of approximately 0.001 seconds, while that of the human hand is approximately 0.2 seconds. Combined with gravitic detection and optical identification system paired with MONOS, the Manus is capable of remarkable slight of hand and smooth motion and awareness typically not associated with artificial hands.

Situated in the knuckles and flexor drives and between the centrifuges, many layers of shock-absorbsion work as so when the hand hits an object, the force is distributed toward the inner frame and away from components. This makes the Manus hardy enough to punch and catch dense heavy objects or act as a foot in one of its other configurations.

The retractible T-configuration palm features two interface plugs, meant to align and interface with special equipment such as weapons: One for the transmission of data, the other for the transmission of anything via Magnetically Confined Transmission - including electricity, various particles and plasma. The link is genderless, meaning two palm-links can be locked together to transmit any of these things from one unit to another.

Essentially turning the undersides of the fingers themselves into gripping surfaces, granular jamming transitions (the point at which grains go from acting as either a semi-liquid or a solid based on 'lubrication' by surrounding air -- becoming solid when the system is a vacuum) are used.

In simple terms, the tip of the fingers are cushioned. When resting against an object, they will conform to the shape of it. When air is removed from the cushioned 'pocket', the conforming shape locks its granular shape, becoming very stiff. This allows it to pick up objects that ordinarily would be very difficult and tedious to move, even for human hands. It also enhances grip of the system over surfaces, making it ideal for climbing and grappling. In a sense, it could be thought of as being similar to the way insects and other creatures cling to surfaces.

Since the unit posesses more joints than a human hand, it is capable of many configurations or actions humans are not. For example, the fingers are all capable of retracting in on themselves into a 'minimal' configuration 1/3rd of the units original size, ideal for internal storage. In addition, since the structure mirrors the human hand so accurately.

Manus is also capable of mimicking the approximate shape and function a foot, albiet by toe-walking - similar to the form assumed by professional runners (allowing for very rapid changes in balance), with thumbs acting as a stabilising heel. The gap between the heel and the bull of the foot may optionally be filled with structol to create a larger contact patch.

When running, the thumbs retract back into the foot and the foot 'bounces', meaning minimal energy is wasted – again, mimicking the form of professional runners. In an instant, it can return to its hand-like shape and - similar to how apes transverse complex vertical environments - offer superior grip when climbing.

Also important is that the Manus may be placed 'flat' to form the largest surface-area possible using structol. This is ideal for use on unstable terrain on which it would typically slip or sink, such as snow or boggy ground - or situations in which the weight of the mounted system would usually collapse concrete or weak materials it may be standing upon.

Exploiting the gravitic centrifuges, the device may 'anchor' to nearby objects, albiet weakly, reducing falling speed during a vertical drop – or even stopping entirely if its surface is predictable.

Finally, the magnetic skimming system situated in the Winter series allows the Manus to latch against surfaces for additional grip or skim over the ground, though the system is less effective over more fluid environments, such as water.

Important is that stabilisation from the centrifuges can keep a tall and heavy object upright on just two contact points (typically feet) and prevent debris from rising up and hitting the unit.

Used properly, they can also kick up a directed burst of dust in desert-like environments which may be ideal for creating a sort of primitive smoke-screen.