Among the technologies presented to us as the ESA Technology Broker UK is a 3D, adaptive, robotic gripper capable of the non-destructive handling of objects in space.
The robotic gripper, created by Ross Innovation Ltd (UK), allows for the non-destructive grasping of structures with irregular geometries by passively conforming to unknown shapes, allowing anchoring, retrieval, or servicing without complex sensing.
Originally developed for nuclear decommissioning purposes, the adaptive gripper has been designed to conform to objects of varying size, geometry, texture and rigidity. Because it was developed for the nuclear industry, the gripper’s safety, robustness and adaptability were key, leading to a solution that requires minimal sensing or high-level control to function effectively, making it well-suited to space sector applications too.
A nested set of frusto-spherical components create a fractal-like structure where each of the primary contact modules can tilt independently in two axes to adapt to the target object. Additional, independently tiltable secondary surfaces provide fine-scale local conformity to ensure that every contact point contributes to the grip without mechanical redundancy, facilitating reliable engagement with both regular and irregular surfaces.
An optional feature is a pair of positively biased scoops mounted at the distal ends of the gripper fingers, which allow for two gripping modes; a pinch grip to retrieve flat or thin objects from planar surfaces and a clench grip for bulkier or deformable items. The scoops draw objects into the adaptive zone, where the primary grip surfaces close to secure them.
The gripper has a number of potential applications for space use, including capturing debris, satellite servicing, repositioning and docking, and more. The gripper can also be integrated into robotic arms or assistive astronaut tools.
Find Out More
You can find out more about this technology solution, here: https://www.esa-technology-broker.co.uk/technologies/3d-adaptive-gripper-for-non-destructive-handling-of-complex-objects-in-space
If you would like to explore this technology further for potential applications, please get in touch with us by emailing contactus@esa-technology-broker.co.uk.