Gripper modelled on a chameleon's tongue

In addition to learning from nature, the aims of Festo’s Bionic Learning Network includes the timely recognition and promotion of new ideas and their joint implementation across company borders. The FlexShapeGripper is an example of this — in close cooperation with the University of Oslo, Festo is now presenting a gripper with a working principle derived from the chameleon’s tongue.

The chameleon strategically uses the tip of its tongue to catch its prey; it can target highly diverse insects in this process. Its tongue adapts flexibly to the particular insect. Once the chameleon has sighted its prey, it rapidly shoots out its tongue like an elastic band. The captive insect then adheres to it and is drawn in as on a fishing line.

The FlexShapeGripper can grip, collect and release several objects of very different shapes in the one process without the need for manual conversion. This is made possible by its water-filled silicone cap, which wraps itself around the items being gripped in a flexible, form-fitting manner. This ability to adapt to different shapes gives the FlexShapeGripper its name. The holding and release mechanisms both operate pneumatically. No additional energy is required for the holding process. The yielding nature of the compressible air facilitates the coordination of the handling and the gripper during the grasping process.

In future, the FlexShapeGripper could be used wherever differently shaped objects are to be handled simultaneously; for example, in service robotics, in assembly tasks or in the handling of small components. The FlexShapeGripper bionic model demonstrates approaches for new solutions in gripping technology in pick-and-place processes and makes manufacturing units more flexible and adaptable. In the production of the future, increasingly flexible systems and components will be required that autonomously adapt to individual products. Adaptable grasping devices like the FlexShapeGripper can assume a significant role in this process.

The Bionic Learning Network is an example Festo’s commitment to technical education and training. In cooperation with students, renowned universities, institutes and development firms, Festo sponsors projects along with test and technology carriers. The aim is to make automated movement processes even more efficient and more productive with the help of bionics. The Bionic Learning Network demonstrates fascinating approaches to solving complex tasks.