The unique combination of force and form fitting of the chameleon’s tongue can be observed when it is on the hunt for insects. Once the chameleon has its prey in its sights, its tongue shoots out like a rubber band. Just before the tip of the tongue reaches the insect, it retracts in the middle whilst the edges continue to move forward. This allows the tongue to adapt to the shape and size of the prey and firmly enclose it. The prey sticks to the tongue and is pulled in as though caught on a fishing line. The Festo Bionic Learning Network with researchers from the University of Oslo used these observations to develop a mechanical prototype based on the same principles.
Gripping workpieces just as a chameleon’s tongue grips insects – that is the operating principle of the adaptive shape gripper DHEF from Festo. This unusual gripper can pick up, gather and put down objects of many different shapes without the need for manual adjustment.
The silicone cap of the adaptive shape gripper can fold itself over and grip objects of virtually any shape. This creates a firm and form-fitting hold. The elastic silicone enables the gripper to adapt to a wide range of geometries. When combined with a pneumatic drive, the adaptive shape gripper requires little energy for a secure grip.
Formless, round and sensitive
Unlike the mechanical grippers currently available that can only grip specific components, the adaptive shape gripper is extremely versatile. It can even manage components with freely formed shapes and round geometries. The absence of sharp edges makes it ideal for gripping sensitive objects such as air nozzles or trim strips. In principle, the gripper can pick up several parts in one movement, for example nuts from a bowl.
This means that the bionic gripper can be used to handle small parts in classic machine building, in the electronic or automotive industry, in supply units for packaging installations, and for human-robot interaction during assembly tasks or for prosthetic extensions in medical technology.
Practical product characteristics
The gripper has an elastic silicone membrane that is flexible and pliable; once it is supplied with compressed air and the standardised robot interface with integrated air connections has been added, it is ready to be used as a practical automation component. The standard sensor slot for position sensing, as well as the bayonet lock for easy replacement of the cap, are useful additional features.
Taking reliability to the trenches SKF South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
SKF’s maintenance-free Y Bearing Unit has significantly extended equipment uptime for key customer Gibela, a leading level 5CE CIBD-rated civils company with more than ten years of experience in the field.
Read more...Adjustable chocks support extremely large telescope SKF South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
Adjustable chocks from SKF will play an important role in the world’s largest visible/near-infrared telescope, the ELT, which is currently under construction in Chile.
Read more...Safe handling in all sectors Bearing Man Group t/a BMG
Motion Control & Drives
BMG is committed to ensuring optimum safety standards in all sectors, and encourages and assists customers to adhere to stringent safety legislation during bulk handling. Tsubaki backstops and cam clutches, which have been developed and manufactured in Japan for high efficiency and optimum safety in high- or low-speed applications, meet the requirements of current legislation.
Read more...Motion control solutions for better machining results
Motion Control & Drives
NSK Europe is shining the spotlight on its latest solutions for machine tools. Innovative NSK bearings, ball screws, and linear guides can deliver significant gains for both machine users and builders.
Read more...Drive technology for tunnel construction
Motion Control & Drives
Compact, robust, and reliable - these are the advantages of RUD’s Tecdos drive technology, which is a gamechanger in tunnel construction.
Read more...Modernising for productivity SEW-Eurodrive
Motion Control & Drives
Making its debut appearance at NAMPO Cape in Bredasdorp in September this year, geared motor specialist SEW-EURODRIVE is all set to excite the farming community with even more solutions to drive productivity and efficiency.
Read more...Cost-effective machine health monitoring SKF South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
The easy to use SKF QuickCollect Bluetooth-enabled, handheld sensor monitors the health of rotating machinery via mobile iOS and Android apps, identifies developing issues, and mitigates potential failures by enabling customers to initiate predictive maintenance.
Read more...Beer brewers avoid grease contamination igus
Motion Control & Drives
A study by RWTH Aachen University and igus recently quantified the financial and environmental benefits of using lubrication-free polymer bearings over traditional metal bearings. The study revealed that users can save millions of rands annually in lubricant costs, significantly reducing their environmental impact.
Read more...Supporting the low-carbon steel movement
Motion Control & Drives
With a legacy of pioneering safer, more productive, and sustainable equipment and services, Konecranes is committed to advancing a decarbonised and circular world for customers and society.
Read more...Harnessing robotics for a sustainable future
Motion Control & Drives
Yaskawa South Africa stands at the forefront of the green revolution, leveraging advanced robotics to drive sustainable manufacturing practices.
printer friendly version