DARPA has come up with an interesting mechanical gripper to pick things up with. The gripper is attached to a robot and uses materials you wouldn’t normally associate with a robot.
The robotic gripper is made from a balloon which is filled with coffee grounds. Air is pushed into the balloon, which allows it to expand, and then the coffee grounds mold around an object, enabling it to be picked up.
Have a look at the video of it in action below.
Innovative Use of Everyday Materials
The use of coffee grounds and a balloon in the DARPA robotic gripper is a fascinating example of how everyday materials can be repurposed for advanced technological applications. Coffee grounds, typically considered waste, have unique properties that make them ideal for this purpose. When air is removed from the balloon, the coffee grounds become rigid and conform to the shape of the object they are gripping. This process, known as jamming transition, allows the gripper to securely hold objects of various shapes and sizes.
This innovative approach not only reduces the cost of materials but also opens up new possibilities for recycling and sustainability in robotics. By using readily available and inexpensive materials, researchers can develop more affordable robotic solutions that can be deployed in a variety of settings, from industrial automation to household chores.
Potential Applications and Future Developments
The potential applications for this type of robotic gripper are vast. In industrial settings, the gripper could be used to handle delicate or irregularly shaped objects that traditional robotic hands struggle with. For example, in the food industry, the gripper could be used to pick up fruits and vegetables without damaging them. In the medical field, it could assist in handling fragile medical instruments or even be used in surgical procedures where precision and delicacy are paramount.
Moreover, the simplicity and effectiveness of the design make it an excellent candidate for further research and development. Future iterations of the gripper could incorporate sensors to provide feedback on the grip strength and object characteristics, enhancing its functionality and versatility. Additionally, exploring other granular materials besides coffee grounds could lead to even more efficient and specialized grippers.
It certainly looks interesting, and it’s a clever way to repurpose coffee grounds. This innovation highlights the importance of thinking outside the box and utilizing unconventional materials to solve complex problems.
via Gizmodo, Gear Fuse
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
