Robotic gripper uses tape measure as inspiration to hold delicate objects

Imagine a robot delicately plucking ripe tomatoes from a vine or carefully selecting a fragile piece of fruit without causing a single bruise. This could soon become a reality thanks to a novel robotic gripper developed by researchers at the University of California San Diego. Inspired by the humble measuring tape, this innovative device is designed for the gentle yet firm handling of delicate items like fruits and vegetables.

Designer: UC San Diego Jacobs School if Engineering

Dubbed “GRIP-tape,” an acronym for “Grasping and Rolling In-Plane,” this mechanical appendage, created by Associate Professor Nick Gravish and his team, utilizes the unique properties of measuring tape – its strength and flexibility – to grasp objects of varying shapes and sizes. The gripper features two triangular fingers, each constructed from two lengths of measuring tape laid lengthwise and adhered together. The ingenuity of the GRIP-tape lies in its versatile movement. By precisely controlling the rotation of four reels (two per finger), the researchers can manipulate the fingers in several ways. They can be extended or retracted to accommodate different sized objects, rotate items held between them, and even move objects in and out, similar to a conveyor belt. Adding to its dexterity, the entire gripper can swivel side to side and tilt up and down on its robotic wrist, allowing for intricate movements.

This unique design enables the GRIP-tape to handle a diverse range of items, from the delicate touch required for a single tomato to the more robust grip needed for a lemon or even an entire tomato vine. The flexible nature of the measuring tape also allows the gripper to navigate around obstacles while reaching for an object. Impressively, experiments have demonstrated the gripper’s ability to lift larger fruits like lemons and oranges with ease. The researchers believe that this technology holds significant promise for applications in agriculture. The soft extremities of the gripper are ideal for picking fragile fruits and vegetables without causing damage, a crucial factor in ensuring the quality and marketability of produce. Furthermore, the device is designed to be low-cost and safe for operation around humans, paving the way for collaborative robotic harvesting.

While the development of the perfect robotic gripper is an ongoing process, the GRIP-tape represents a significant step forward in creating gentle and adaptable robotic hands. This clever application of a common tool showcases the potential for biomimicry and innovative engineering to revolutionize industries like agriculture, bringing us closer to a future where robots can work alongside humans to bring food from the field to our tables with utmost care.