Robotic hand has that human touch

Oct. 20, 2005
A robotic hand with over 100 touch sensors replicates all the joints and movements of a human hand.

Robotic hand uses more than 100 touch sensors and 36 pneumatic muscles to simulate the human hand.


In North London, U.K., Shadow Robot Co. develops advanced robotic systems for applications such as medical research. But one day it could produce the first humanoid domestic robots.

The company's designers use compliant pneumatic actuators, otherwise known as air muscles, in their robotic systems. The robotic hand uses 36 of these air muscles to control 25 separate movements. Seventy-two valves control the flow of air in and out of each muscle. The valves sit inside the elbow of the arm.

The ultracompact size of valves from The Lee Co., Westbrook, Conn., lets designers embed them directly into the dexterous hand.

"The robot hand is self-contained, requiring only an air supply and 24-V power," says Hugo Elias, technical director at Shadow.

Sponsored Recommendations

June 27, 2025
Ensure workplace safety and compliance with our comprehensive Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Safety Training course. Learn critical procedures to prevent serious injuries.
June 27, 2025
Join our expert webinar to discover essential safety control measures and best practices for engineering a truly safe and compliant industrial environment.
June 25, 2025
An innovative aircraft with electric drives combines the best of both worlds. The cross between drone and helicopter could mean significantly faster and more efficient air emergency...
June 25, 2025
Effective when other materials fail, ceramics are particularly suitable for applications requiring wear and chemical resistance, sliding characteristics or biocompatibility. Discover...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!