Integrated sensing mechanism enables development of soft, robotic, 3D-printed fingers

A team of scientists from Ritsumeikan University (Kyoto, Japan) has developed soft-touch robotic fingers in order to enhance robotic management of fragile objects and living organisms. A key challenge for the field is to integrate traditional sensors onto robotic fingers, maintaining the dexterity and capabilities of a human-like hand. In an ideal scenario, a soft gripper would have high proprioception, sensing its own position and movements in order to safely and accurately perform a variety of tasks. However, the rigidity of traditional sensors can be problematic, reducing the opportunity for varied movement. The team from Ritsumeikan University sought to overcome...