Flex­Shape­Gripper

Year

2015

The idea

This gentle, flexible gripping system is modelled on a chameleon’s tongue.

The objective

The FlexShapeGripper wraps itself around one or more objects like a chameleon’s tongue in a form-fitting manner; the holding and releasing mechanism is pneumatically actuated.

Technical data

• Material: silicone
• Form: double-acting cylinder

Operating principle

The gripper consists of a double-acting cylinder; one of its chambers is filled with compressed air while the other is permanently filled with water. The elastic moulded component, corresponding to the chameleon’s tongue, is mounted to this second chamber. The volumes of the two chambers are designed to compensate for the deformation.

Gripping process

A handling system guides the gripper to the object, which it touches with its silicone cap. The air is then extracted from the upper pressure chamber, and the water-filled silicone element retracts inwards.

Material

The cap of the FlexShapeGripper, made of silicone, can wrap itself around objects of any shape. In this way, several items can be picked up in sequence in a single manoeuvre and placed down together. The static friction of the silicone element generates a strong holding force and supports the secure form fit with a high level of energy efficiency.

Material

FlexShapeGripper