Development of a non-contact end effector for robotic handling of non-rigid materials

Abstract

This paper identifies the need for a new range of end effectors suitable for non-rigid products and introduces a novel non-contact gripping device. The end effector operates on the principle of generating a high-speed flow between the end effector and product surface thereby creating a vacuum which levitates the product. The lifting forces and conditions are theoretically discussed. The experimental results are presented using the end effector that has been operated to lift non-rigid food materials such as jelly blocks.