Gripper technology
The chameleon among the grippers
Bionic gripper. The operating principle of the DHEF adaptive shape gripper from Festo is based on the function of a chameleon's tongue. The gripper can grasp, collect and release objects with different shapes without the need for manual conversion.
The silicone cap of the adaptive form gripper fits over almost any shaped gripping object. This creates a firm form fit. The elastic silicone adapts precisely to many different geometries. In combination with a pneumatic drive, the adaptive form gripper grips safely and with low energy consumption.
Unlike the jaw grippers currently available on the market, which can only grip certain components, the adaptive shape gripper is highly flexible. It can even handle components with free shapes and round geometries. As it has no sharp edges, it is also suitable for use with sensitive objects such as air nozzles or application strips. In principle, the gripper can pick up several parts such as nuts from a tray in a single movement.
The bionic gripper can therefore be used, for example, for handling small parts in traditional mechanical engineering, in the electronics or automotive industry, in feed units for packaging systems, for human-robot interaction in assembly tasks or for prosthesis additions in medical technology.
Equipped with an elastic silicone membrane that is flexible and compliant and is pressurized with compressed air, as well as a standardized robot interface with integrated air connections, the gripper becomes a practical automation component. The sensor groove for standard sensors for position monitoring and the bayonet lock for easy replacement of the cap also play their part.
The combination of force and form closure of the chameleon's tongue can be observed when hunting insects. When the chameleon has its prey in its sights, it lets its tongue flick out like a rubber band. Shortly before the tip of the tongue reaches the insect, it retracts in the middle while the edges continue to move forward. This allows the tongue to adapt to the shape and size of the prey and enclose it tightly. The prey sticks to the tongue and is reeled in as if on a fishing line. The Festo Bionic Learning Network and researchers from the University of Oslo made use of these observations when developing a prototype called the "Flex Shape Gripper". as
Hall 15, Stand D11
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