Festo is continually looking at ways to enhance human and machine interaction in industrial environments, based on soft robotics. Its latest operating exoskeleton concept, ExoHand, combines human intelligence with the capabilities of a robot. The ExoHand represents a possible technical solution to the challenges that production and working environments – real as well as virtual – will be faced with in the future and extends the human scope of action in production environments.
Individually adapted to the human hand and worn like a glove, the ExoHand’s fingers can actively move, and their strength can be amplified. This manual orthosis not only fits over the human hand, but can also be worn over an artificial hand made of silicone, thus creating a link between robotics and orthotics in a completely new way. This structure supports the human hand externally and stimulates the physiological degrees of freedom of the hand, thus providing various possibilities for gripping and touching.
Manufactured from polyamide, the exoskeleton is moved by eight pneumatic actuators – DFK-10 cylinders – that are attached to the structure and allow the wearer to open and close the fingers of the orthosis with utmost precision. Sensors record the forces, angle and distances. Servo-pneumatic open and closed loop control algorithms allow precise movement of the individual finger joints. The ExoHand also consists of proportional valves, linear potentiometers that act as displacement sensors and pressure sensors. A CoDeSys-compliant system lends control.
The pneumatic components allow highly flexible and ergonomic control of the individual finger joints. High forces can thus be transmitted precisely in a small space and with a low weight, without the system becoming rigid and restrictive. The index finger can be pivoted to either side and the thumb can rotate towards the palm, just like a human hand.
The ExoHand can be used to assist in assembly, especially in repetitive tasks that can easily lead to fatigue and to compensate for an ageing workforce in most industrialised countries. In addition, complex tasks in dangerous or hazardous environments can be performed from a safe distance. There is also substantial potential for use of the ExoHand in the service robot market, due to the rapid growth that is envisaged.
From a medical perspective, the ExoHand can be invaluable in rehabilitation therapy, especially for stroke patients. Used in conjunction with a brain-computer-interface (BCI) the ExoHand allows a closed loop to be established, which can help regenerate the damaged connection from the brain to the hand. Festo is working together with the Centre for Integrative Neuroscience at the University Hospital Tübingen on this prospect.
The components used in the ExoHand are already produced by Festo in large quantities, which will enable its manufacture at relatively low cost.
The ExoHand was nominated for a coveted international 2012 Hermes Award, for outstanding technical innovation.
Robotic solution for adhesive tape application with flexible control Beckhoff Automation
Editor's Choice Robotics & Mechatronics
In industry, even elaborate processes, such as the application of adhesive tape to parts with varying geometries are automated. Innovative Automation has developed a platform with Beckhoff control technology and a remote feeding module, which increases productivity and enables flexible customisation for different requirements.
Read more...Festo celebrates its centenary Festo
News & events
Creating added customer value through innovation has been the driving force behind the family-owned company from the beginning and remains the key to Festo’s success today. The company’s anniversary is being celebrated with employees, customers and partners worldwide throughout the year.
Read more...New AI advisor for robot selection igus
Editor's Choice Robotics & Mechatronics
igus’ new AI chatbot has been added to the online platform RBTX.com. The interactive consultant is designed to enable companies with little previous experience and technological expertise to quickly and reliably put together low-cost automation solutions to becoming more competitive.
Read more...Vertical labelling of test tubes in clinical laboratories Omron Electronics
Robotics & Mechatronics
Werfen has implemented a new automated machine for the supply of reagents to drug toxicology laboratories, built by MACCO in collaboration with OMRON and Marini Pandolfi. It uses OMRON SCARA robots and advanced vision systems to ensure reagent quality through vertical handling and labelling process of test tubes.
Read more...Embracing robotics for SMEs Yaskawa Southern Africa
Robotics & Mechatronics
As industries increasingly integrate robotics and automation into their business operations, South Africa’s SMEs are beginning to recognise the benefits of robotics, and want their piece of the pie.
Read more...Autonomous robots revolutionise green logistics in warehouses DNH Tradeserve t/a DNH Technologies
Robotics & Mechatronics
In 2007, Heinrich Amminger and Martin Trummer from Austria had an idea for revolutionising warehouse logistics. They developed the automated small part warehouse – an intelligent and very environment-friendly logistics system that is winning an increasing number of customers for Ylog, a startup company.
Read more...Diving robot cleans up canals Beckhoff Automation
Robotics & Mechatronics
Around 70% of the waste in water sinks to the bottom of the ocean or decomposes into micro and nanoplastics, amounting to tens of millions of tons. So the European Horizon Maelstrom research project put together an international research team and developed the Robotic Seabed Cleaning Platform.
Read more...Automating precision tasks
Robotics & Mechatronics
A new low-cost modular robotics kit from motion plastics manufacturer, igus, makes automation extremely easy and affordable for manufacturing companies in South Africa.
Read more...The importance of precision and accuracy in manufacturing robotics
Robotics & Mechatronics
When it comes to robotics and automation in the manufacturing industry, precision and accuracy are crucial for seamless operations. Jan ‘t Hart, national sales manager of Yaskawa South Africa, details what goes into ensuring precision as a leading manufacturer of industrial robots.
Read more...Streamline your valve selection Festo
Editor's Choice Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Automation specialist, Festo recognises the value of time in the dynamic world of process automation. To cater for this, we have introduced an innovative online configurator tool to transform the way in which engineers and procurement professionals select and size process valves.
printer friendly version