A Low-Cost Soft Gripper for Automated Pick-and-Place Systems

Abstract

The study introduces a pioneering low-cost soft gripper designed for the automation industry, specifically targeting sensitive handling requirements in the food and health sectors. Utilizing rubber or elastic composites, the gripper combines improved sensitivity and adaptability to handle delicate materials safely and efficiently, aligning with stringent industry standards. Central to the design is a pneumatic control system that ensures precise manipulation, allowing the gripper to adapt to varying object contours without causing damage. This innovation not only addresses the mechanical aspects of soft robotics but also integrates seamlessly with Industry 4.0 technologies through smart sensors and AI algorithms, enhancing operational intelligence and versatility. By leveraging additive manufacturing techniques, the design also achieves significant cost reductions, facilitating broader adoption. This study's soft gripper represents a critical step forward in the development of robotic systems that can perform complex tasks with high sensitivity and economic efficiency, promising transformative impacts on the automation capabilities of sensitive industrial sectors.