The chameleon is able to catch a variety of different insects by putting its tongue over the respective prey and securely enclosing it. The FlexShapeGripper uses this principle to grip the widest range of objects in a form-fitting manner. Using its elastic silicone cap, it can even pick up several objects in a single gripping process and put them down together, without the need for a manual conversion. Once it has been put into operation, the gripper is able to do various tasks. This functional integration is a possible way of how systems and components can in future adapt to various products and scenarios themselves. The project also shows how Festo acquires new findings from nature for its core business of automation. But the aims of the Bionic Learning Network not only include learning from nature. Identifying good ideas and fostering them also plays a major part. The FlexShapeGripper came about through a cooperation with the the Oslo and Akershus University College of Applied Sciences and is an outstanding example for a close collaboration beyond company borders.

Product:

• Country: Germany 
• Company: Festo