US-made ultra-sensitive robotic hand can pick up a single potato chip

Researchers at The University of Texas at Austin have developed FORTE (Fragile Object Grasping with Tactile Sensing), a novel robotic hand capable of delicately grasping fragile objects like potato chips and raspberries without crushing them. The system integrates advanced tactile sensing with soft robotics, inspired by the fin-ray effect found in fish fins. Its 3D-printed fingers contain internal air channels that detect pressure changes via sensors, providing real-time force feedback and slip detection. In tests involving 31 objects—including fragile, slippery, and everyday items—FORTE achieved a 91.9% success rate in single-trial grasps and detected 93% of slip events with perfect precision, outperforming traditional vision-based grippers. The key innovation lies in FORTE’s rapid and accurate slip sensing, allowing it to adjust grip force precisely to avoid damaging delicate items. The fingers are durable, customizable, and designed for applications requiring gentle handling, such as food processing, healthcare, and manufacturing of