Flexible movement and precise gripping: at first glance, the Bionic Handling Assistant appears to be a readily yielding gripping arm whose structure and overall operation are modelled on the elephant’s trunk. Over and above its pure utility value, however, the system serves as a development platform that combines a wide diversity of technologies and components.
All aspects of the Bionic Handling Assistant in action – already available to you now from the Festo product spectrum
CPX terminal and CMXR robotics control: intelligence in the solution package
The “brain” of the system is the integrated CPX automation platform.
The electrical terminal is equipped with a wide variety of functions – from electric and pneumatic propulsion, through measurement, to closed-loop control.
The CMXR robotic control unit can also intelligently control motion and thus ensure rapid, accurate positioning.
VPWP proportional directional control valves: efficient use of compressed air
Festo uses VPWP proportional valves for pressure control in the chambers of the three-piece gripper arm; these make for highly specific use of compressed air, with significant cost savings and optimised installation space in comparison with other valves.
SMAT sensors: precise measurement of distances and travel
The system’s eleven degrees of freedom provide a wide variety of task-specific travel paths. The compact SMAT sensors from Festo detect the routes and allow for precise alignment.
DHDG gripper: from the Future Concept to series manufacture
The resilience and flexibility of the DHDG adaptive gripper are derived from the movement of a fish’s tail fin. They enable secure, non-destructive gripping of fragile and irregularly shaped objects. The gripper is the first product to achieve the leap from the Future Concept to series production.