Articles tagged with "robotic-grippers"
Robotic joints mimic human knees and grip 3× more weight efficiently
Engineers at Harvard have developed a novel method for designing robotic joints that closely mimic the human knee by using rolling contact joints—pairs of curved surfaces that roll and slide against each other, connected with flexible elements. This design approach optimizes the shape of each joint component based on the specific forces and tasks it must perform, enabling the joint to direct energy efficiently. As a result, robots can use smaller actuators and simpler control systems, improving overall efficiency. In tests, a knee-like joint designed with this method corrected misalignment by 99 percent compared to standard joints, and a two-finger robotic gripper using these optimized joints could hold over three times the weight of a conventional gripper for the same actuator input. The innovation stems from efforts to enhance soft robotic grippers, combining rigid links with flexible joints to emulate human limb mechanics. Unlike traditional rolling contact joints that use simple circular surfaces, the Harvard team’s method creates irregular shapes tailored to follow specific trajectories and force transmission ratios, allowing joints to
robotroboticsrobotic-jointssoft-roboticsrobotic-grippersbiomechanicsmechanical-engineeringBio-hybrid robots turn food waste into functional machines - Robohub
Researchers at EPFL’s CREATE Lab have developed a novel bio-hybrid robotic manipulator that incorporates langoustine abdomen exoskeletons—repurposed from food industry waste—combined with synthetic components to create functional machines. This approach leverages the natural balance of rigidity and flexibility found in crustacean exoskeletons, which enable rapid, high-torque movements, and integrates them with elastomers and motorized bases to control segment movement and stiffness. The team demonstrated three robotic applications: a manipulator capable of handling objects up to 500 grams, grippers that can grasp various items, and a swimming robot propelled by flapping exoskeletal fins reaching speeds of 11 cm/s. The design emphasizes sustainability through a cyclic process of design, operation, and recycling, where biological and synthetic parts can be separated and reused after deployment. Despite challenges such as natural variability in biological structures causing asymmetrical bending in the grippers, the researchers propose that advances in synthetic control mechanisms could address these issues
roboticsbio-hybrid-robotssustainable-technologyrobotic-grippersexoskeleton-materialsfood-waste-recyclingsoft-roboticsSoft vine robot wraps fragile items, even lifting human bodies safely
Researchers at MIT and Stanford have developed a novel “robo-tendril” robot inspired by garden vines, capable of gently wrapping, tightening, and lifting fragile and heavy objects—including safely lifting a human body. The system uses long, inflatable tubes that grow outward by turning inside out, twisting and coiling around objects before reconnecting to their base. A built-in clamp and mechanical winch then retract the tubes, creating a soft, hammock-like cradle. This design allows the robot to navigate tight spaces, push through clutter, and stabilize loads that conventional grippers struggle to handle. A key innovation is the robot’s ability to switch between “open-loop” growth—extending and burrowing under an object—and “closed-loop” grasping, where the vine forms a continuous loop by reconnecting to its base to securely hold and lift objects. This capability addresses challenges in eldercare, such as transferring patients from beds, by reducing physical strain on caregivers and providing a gentler, more comfortable experience for
roboticssoft-roboticsvine-robotcaregiving-technologypneumatic-actuatorsrobotic-grippersrobotic-manipulation2024’s Startup Battlefield runner-up geCKo Materials reveals four new products at TechCrunch Disrupt
geCKo Materials, the runner-up in the 2024 TechCrunch Disrupt Startup Battlefield, unveiled four new products that leverage its super-strong dry adhesive technology inspired by lizard feet. The new applications include a semiconductor wafer handling tool, a robotic gripper for smooth surfaces like solar panels and glass, a curved robotic end effector for irregular shapes, and a versatile gripper for robotic arms. This adhesive acts like a residue-free, reusable Velcro alternative that requires no electrical charge or suction, capable of holding 16 pounds per square inch and enduring up to 120,000 attachment cycles. Its adaptability to manufacturing and robotic applications has attracted major customers such as Ford, NASA, and Pacific Gas & Electric. Since last year’s Battlefield appearance, geCKo has tripled its team size, raised $8 million, and seen its adhesive used on six space missions, demonstrating its effectiveness in diverse environments including vacuum. Founder Dr. Capella Kerst highlighted the technology’s superior performance in semiconductor
materialsroboticsdry-adhesivesemiconductor-manufacturingrobotic-grippersspace-technologyindustrial-automationWhy end of arm tooling could be robotics' most profitable niche - The Robot Report
The article highlights the significant and often overlooked role of end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) in the robotics industry, positioning it as potentially the most profitable niche within robotics. EOAT refers to the various devices attached to robotic arms—such as grippers, suction cups, welding torches, and surgical tools—that enable robots to interact with and manipulate objects. Unlike the more visible robot hardware, EOAT is essential for practical automation and commands a growing market valued at $2.6 billion in 2023, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.1% through 2028. Certain EOAT segments, like soft robotics grippers used in delicate food handling, may see even faster growth rates of 18–20% CAGR, outpacing the 7–8% growth expected for industrial robot hardware. Several factors contribute to EOAT’s strong market position. The large installed base of over 553,000 industrial robots in 2023 ensures recurring revenue
roboticsend-of-arm-toolingindustrial-robotsautomationrobotic-grippersmanufacturing-technologyrobotics-market-growthNew sensor gives robots lifelike touch and instant grip control
Researchers at the University at Buffalo have developed a novel fabric-based electronic textile (E-textile) sensor that mimics human skin’s ability to sense pressure, slippage, and movement. This sensor, integrated onto 3D-printed robotic fingers and a compliant gripper, enables robots to react in real time by adjusting their grip strength dynamically—tightening or loosening as needed. The sensor operates via the tribovoltaic effect, generating electrical signals from friction, and demonstrates response times as fast as 0.76 milliseconds, surpassing typical human touch receptor speeds. This rapid and sensitive feedback allows robots to detect object slippage and adjust their grasp without crushing items, significantly enhancing robotic dexterity. The breakthrough holds promise for a variety of applications requiring fine motor control and delicate touch, such as collaborative manufacturing tasks, robotic surgery, and prosthetic limbs. The research team plans to incorporate reinforcement learning to further improve control algorithms and explore the sensor’s adaptability across different robotic platforms. Funded by the University
robotroboticssensor-technologyelectronic-textilesrobotic-grippersprostheticsrobotic-surgery4AG Robotics picks up $29M for mushroom harvesting robots - The Robot Report
4AG Robotics has secured CAD 40 million (approximately $29 million USD) in a Series B funding round to scale production and meet growing demand for its mushroom harvesting robots. The company’s AI-powered robotic platform, which autonomously harvests, trims, and packs mushrooms, is already deployed on farms in Canada, Ireland, and Australia, with upcoming expansions planned for the Netherlands and the U.S. Founded in 1999 as TechBrew Robotics, 4AG’s technology addresses significant labor shortages and high production costs in the mushroom industry, where harvesting can represent up to 50% of expenses. The robots integrate with existing Dutch-rack infrastructure, offering growers consistent quality, reduced labor costs, and real-time operational data. This latest funding round, led by Astanor Ventures and Cibus Capital and supported by several existing investors, brings 4AG’s total capital raised over the past two years to $57.5 million. The company plans to use the funds to expand manufacturing in British
roboticsagricultural-robotsmushroom-harvestingAI-automationprecision-agriculturerobotic-farmingrobotic-grippersBrighter Signals emerges from stealth - The Robot Report
Brighter Signals B.V., an Amsterdam-based sensing technology company, has emerged from stealth mode, unveiling its patented multi-modal tactile sensor platform designed to detect and measure touch with real-time pressure gradients. Founded by Andrew Klein, Christine Fraser, and Edward Shim, the company’s lightweight, durable, and recyclable sensors can be embedded into fabrics, surfaces, and structural components. Brighter Signals is initially targeting three key industries: robotics, automotive, and healthcare. In robotics, their sensors enhance tactile sensing in grippers and humanoid systems, enabling precise handling of objects, including delicate and irregularly shaped items. In automotive, the technology is being tested for occupant classification and airbag control via in-seat sensors. In healthcare, it supports passive, continuous monitoring of vital signs such as heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure through wearables and smart mattresses. The company collaborates with robotics OEMs, Tier 1 tactile solution suppliers, automotive manufacturers, and academic and clinical partners to validate and deploy its technology.
roboticstactile-sensorsmulti-modal-sensingrobotic-gripperswearable-technologyhealthcare-monitoringautomotive-sensors