12 Robot Hand Manufacturers in 2024
This section provides an overview for robot hands as well as their applications and principles. Also, please take a look at the list of 12 robot hand manufacturers and their company rankings. Here are the top-ranked robot hand companies as of November, 2024: 1.RAD, 2.RightHand Robotics, Inc., 3.Soft Robotics.
Table of Contents
Categories Related to Robot Hands
What Is a Robot Hand?
A robot hand is a component attached to the end of an industrial robot for gripping the object to be conveyed.
Robot hand may be changed according to the shape of the object to be transported and may be replaced depending on the object to be transported. While a robot hand needs to be able to grasp the object to be conveyed, it is also essential for it to be safe.
Since robots move unattended, they generally do not stop even if a person comes in contact with them. If the robot's hand is sharply shaped, it may injure a person. Therefore, measures such as wrapping the hand with urethane may be necessary.
Applications for Robot Hands
Robot hand is used in a variety of industrial robots, including vertically articulated robots, horizontally articulated robots, Cartesian Coordinate Robots, and parallel link robots. The robot hand has an appropriate shape depending on the object to be conveyed.
When transporting cardboard, for example, a gripping type robot hand with two plate-shaped jaws can be used. In this case, the two jaws clamp the cardboard from both sides and lift it. To prevent the cardboard from falling, measures may be taken to bend the lower side of the jaws inward slightly.
Robot hand of the suction type can be used for transporting objects such as one-liter pails or pails. In this case, a vacuum is applied to the container with the suction pad placed on the top surface of the container. In some cases, an ejector as well as a pump is used to create a vacuum.
Principle of Robot Hands
Robot hands of the gripping type are called Soft Grippers, which can grip fragile (fragile) materials such as food. The hand is made of flexible silicone, so it will not break even if it grips the object to be conveyed.
Suction pads used in suction-type robot hands come in a variety of shapes, including round, flat, bellows, and elliptical bellows. The suction pad has a suction port. Suction is applied through this port to reduce the pressure inside the suction pad.
It is important that the contact surface of the suction pad be in firm contact with the material to be conveyed. Decompression is performed by a vacuum pump or an ejector using compressed air. When a vacuum is created, the contact surface is stuck to the object to be conveyed, thus completing suction, and when the decompression is released, the contact surface can be released from the object.
In addition to gripping, other functions have recently been incorporated into robot hands, including image recognition. By attaching a camera or other image recognition device to the robot hand, it can take pictures of the object from the robot hand and automatically recognize where it is being handled. This function can be applied to a wide range of applications, for example, selectively grabbing randomly placed bolts.
Types of Robot Hands
Robot hands can be broadly classified into two types: gripping type and suction type.
1. Grasping Type
Robot hands with two or three claws are commonly used, but there are also robot hands with five fingers, just like a human hand. They are capable of gripping objects of complex shapes.
2. Suction Type
The suction-type robot hand is equipped with a suction pad and grips the object to be conveyed by vacuum suction. It can grab the object to be conveyed in a short time. Some suction-type robot hands also use magnetic suction to grip the object to be conveyed.
How to Select a Robot Hand
A robot hand that can do everything as dexterously as a human being does not yet exist. Therefore, it is necessary to select an appropriate robot hand for the job you want to accomplish (e.g., picking up an empty can with a robotic arm and placing it at an arbitrary location).
First, it is important to consider "How will the robot grab the object to be transported?" is important to consider. For example, there are several options, such as "whether to grasp and hold the object to be conveyed like a human hand," "whether to hold the object by vacuum suction," "whether to hold the object by magnetic suction," and so on.
The method selected depends on the characteristics of the object to be conveyed. The characteristics of the object to be considered when considering the retention method are as follows
- What is the hardness of the object to be conveyed?
- Is the environment suitable for adsorption or generation of magnetic force?
- What is the speed at which the robot can transport the object?
- What is the shape of the object to be conveyed?
Once the grasping method is determined based on these items, the specific robot hand to be employed is considered according to "size and center of gravity position," "surface material," and "holding area.
Other Information on Robot Hands
How to Make Your Own Robot Hands
A simple structured robot hand is relatively easy to make, even for an amateur. For example, consider the case of a hand attached to the arm of a crane game.
The hand is driven by a servo motor and holds the object to be transported between two L-shaped plates.
- Prepare two L-shaped boards or the like.
- Connect a servo motor to one of the boards, so that when the servo motor rotates, the board moves together.
- Connect the two L-shaped boards with hinges.
When two L-shaped plates are joined together with hinges, one of the plates moves closer to the other, thus enabling the grasping of the object to be conveyed. Other types of hands that are made by factory production engineers, for example, employ an air cylinder or NC cylinder as a gripping jaw.
List of 12 Robot Hand Manufacturers
*Including some distributors, etc.
Sort by Features
- Default
- Company Size: largest first
- Year Founded: oldest first
- Year Founded: earliest first
Sort by Area
- United States of America
- Canada
- China
- Japan
- Sweden
- United Kingdom
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OnRobot US Inc.
Robot arm
Manufacturer Overview
OnRobot US Inc., founded in 2015 and based in Odense, Denmark, is a robotics manufacturer of tools and software for collaborative automation on various tasks, such as packaging, quality control, materials handling, machine tending, assembly, and surface finishing commonly used in industrial settings. They offer a range of products, including end-effectors, grippers, sensors, and tool changers that can be integrated with cobots from various manufacturers. They were recognized with awards such as the Gold Innovators Award and the Red Dot Design Award, and are certified by Universal Robots.
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RAD
Robotic Grippers
Manufacturer Overview
RAD, founded in 1981, is a manufacturer of robotic end effectors, including collision sensors, compliance devices, grippers, and deburring tools that is based in Tipp, Ohio. Their products are used for applications such as in collision detection, alignment, object manipulation, surface finishing, and for tool automation. The company is ISO-9001:2015 certified, and sells directly to Fortune 100 companies, serving the manufacturing industry such as robotics, automotive, aerospace, logistics, and precision engineering.
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PHD Inc.
GRIPPERS
Manufacturer Overview
PHD Inc. was founded in 1957 and is a manufacturer of automation solutions based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, United States. The company manufactures various automation system products such as tri-axis tooling, rotary actuators, linear slides, blow molding, and tie rod cylinders. The products have been applied in various industries such as material handling equipment, stretch blow molding, aluminum, glass, and medical. The company has obtained the certificate of ISO 9001:2015 and complied to REACH and RoHS standards.
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Soft Robotics
Soft Gripper
Manufacturer Overview
SOFT ROBOTICS, founded in 2012 in Boston, is a technology company that designs and manufactures automated solutions using 3D machine vision and artificial intelligence software. Soft Robotics aims to promote widespread adoption of robotic automation in the food industry, enhancing efficiency and precision in food processing, packaging, and handling.Its transformative robotic solutions enable system integrators, OEM machine manufacturers, and food processors to automate processes in food production. These robots, which enable coordination of "vision," "hand," and "brain" similar to human functions, are backed by a company holding 116 patents.
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RightHand Robotics, Inc.
Robot Hands
Company Overview
RightHand Robotics, Inc. was established in 2015 and is based in Somerville, Massachusetts as a manufacturer and supplier of robotic piece-picking solutions for order fulfillment. The company’s product portfolio includes RightPick, an intelligent picking platform that combines computer visialisation, AI, and grasping technology. The products are used in various industries, such as e-commerce, grocery, pharmaceuticals, and 3PL fulfillment. The products are crucial components in supply chain automation, enabling flexible and scalable performance. The company also provides product design, installation, and maintenance services.
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Inspire-Robots Technology Co., Ltd.
Robot Hands
Manufacturer Overview
Beijing Inspire-Robots Technology Co., Ltd., established in 2016 in Beijing,China, operates as a manufacturer, consultant, and exporter engaged in the research and development of advanced and emergent technology. It offers a range of products, including Micro Linear Servo Actuators, Electric Grippers, Ready Hands RH56BFX, Ready Hands RH56DFX, and more, catering to various sectors such as robotics, manufacturing, aesthetic medicine, and the biomedical industry. The company is actively pursuing invention patents both in China and internationally. Additionally, it accepts OEM and ODM orders, providing tailored solutions for diverse industries.
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Manufacturer Overview
Piab AB (Piab Group), established in 1956 and headquartered in Danderyd, Sweden, is a manufacturer specializing in industrial vacuum technology solutions, currently operating as a subsidiary of Patricia Industries, a part of Investor AB. The company’s product lineup includes vacuum conveyors for powder and bulk, vacuum pumps and ejectors, as well as system and solution accessories. Its offerings extend to robot and collaborative robot (cobot) gripping solutions, components for robot end-of-arm tooling (EOAT), as well as suction cups and soft grippers. Notably, the company engages in industrial automation, providing solutions across industries, including automotive, food and beverages, chemicals, logistics, packaging, and warehousing.
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Kinova inc.
Robot Hands
Manufacturer Overview
Kinova, founded in 2006 and headquartered in Boisbriand, Quebec, Canada, is a manufacturer of service robotics platforms and applications, primarily used for personal assistance. The Kinova Ultra lightweight series comprises user-friendly, power-efficient robot arms with an open architecture, ROS compatibility, and software tools, making them adaptable for various applications and research purposes. The company aims to augment human capabilities, with a strong emphasis on adaptability to specific working environments and conditions. Its Gen3 and Gen2 Ultra lightweight robots are supported with MATLAB, providing connectivity and control options, as well as access to vision modules for enhanced functionality.
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Shadow Robot Company
Humanoid Robot Hand
Manufacturer Overview
Shadow Robot Company, a manufacturer of smart robots and robotic systems that address complex problems and provide significant solutions, was founded in London,UK in 1997. Its robotic arms are key components for advancing technology and remote control across various industries. Company's system capabilities include the Shadow Teleoperative System, Shadow Glove HaptX gloves (for tactile feedback), dual manual control (left and right hands, 2 gloves, 2 arms, and 2 pedestals), single manual control and BioTac. The company has received accolades and awards, including the Queen's Award (2019), The ALCONIS (2019), WILDCARD (2021), AL (2021), and more.
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Vishwa Robotics
Robot Hands
Manufacturer Overview
Vishwa Robotics and Automation, founded in 2009 in the USA, is a robotics R&D manufacturer that provides a range of robotic products. Inspired by biology and led by research engineers and scientists trained at organizations such as NASA and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the company wanted to improve the fundamental workings of nature. Vishwa Robotics caters to many sectors, including renewable energy, healthcare, and defense, and operates in four divisions: Aero/Astro, Auto, Bio, and Enviro with products such as; the small human impedance extravehicular activity armor (SHIVA Suit), X-Wing heliplanes, extensor human-like robot hands, and perching quadrotors, among others.
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CIM SYSTEMS, INC.
Robot Hands
Manufacturer Overview
CIM SYSTEMS, INC. is a manufacturer of robotic automation systems founded in 1989 and based in Noblesville, Indiana. The company provides material handling solutions for use in complex production processes such as packaging, palletizing, or machine tending for clients in automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods. The company’s product lineup includes components like positioners, conveyors, end-of-arm tooling, and deburring spindles, as well as accessories like grippers and sensors. CIM SYSTEMS, INC also develops and supplies clients with CAD and CAM software for industrial applications, including RhinoNC, MillBox, Pyramis, and SUM3D.
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Nitta Corporation
Robot Hand
Company Overview
Nitta Corporation is an Osaka-based manufacturer and distributor of various industrial products founded in 1885. The company offers power transmission and mechatronic products, as well as intermediate components like tubings and fittings. These are used in conveyor machines, hydraulic systems, and medical devices. The company also produces industrial parts, such as molded rubber products like gaskets or diaphragms, as well as air filters and monitoring equipment like particle counters or decontamination devices. Nitta Corporation maintains a network of manufacturing facilities and sales locations in 22 countries across four continents.
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Robot Hand Manufacturer Ranking
*Including some distributors, etc.Ranking as of November 2024
Derivation Method| Rank | Company | Click Share |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | RAD |
13.8%
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| 2 | RightHand Robotics, Inc. |
10.9%
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| 3 | Soft Robotics |
9.6%
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| 4 | Vishwa Robotics |
9.2%
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| 5 | Kinova inc. |
8.4%
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| 6 | Piab |
8.1%
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| 7 | CIM SYSTEMS, INC. |
7.7%
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| 8 | Inspire-Robots Technology Co., Ltd. |
7.2%
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| 9 | OnRobot US Inc. |
7.2%
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| 10 | Nitta Corporation |
7.1%
|
Derivation Method
The ranking is calculated based on the click share within the robot hand page as of November 2024. Click share is defined as the total number of clicks for all companies during the period divided by the number of clicks for each company.Number of Employees
- Nitta Corporation: 2,971
Newly Established Company
- Inspire-Robots Technology Co., Ltd.: 2016 (8 years ago)
- RightHand Robotics, Inc.: 2015 (9 years ago)
- Soft Robotics: 2012 (12 years ago)
Company with a History
- Nitta Corporation: 1885 (139 years ago)
- Piab: 1951 (73 years ago)
- RAD: 1984 (40 years ago)
Robot Hand Manufacturers in United States
*Including some distributors, etc.
Global Distribution of Robot Hand Manufacturers by Country
*Including some distributors, etc.
| Country | Number of Companies | Share (%) |
|---|---|---|
United States of America
|
5 | 50.0% |
China
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1 | 10.0% |
Sweden
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1 | 10.0% |
Canada
|
1 | 10.0% |
United Kingdom
|
1 | 10.0% |
Japan
|
1 | 10.0% |
List of Robot Hand Products
10 products are listed.
Shinano Kenshi
Robot hand (end effector) electric 2 claw robot hand ARH205D-P80
30+ people viewing
The ASPINA robot hand is an end effector for collaborative robots. Large strokes, hollow structures, and detailed adjustments are common features.
Shinano Kenshi
Robot hand (end effector) electric 2 claw robot hand ARH205D-P40
30+ people viewing
The ASPINA robot hand is an end effector for collaborative robots. Large strokes, hollow structures, and detailed adjustments are common features.
Sunk Japan Co., Ltd.
It works almost as human hands 5 claws servo electric grip hand SVH
60+ people viewing
5 Claw Servo Electric Grip Hand The mass -produced SVH 5 finger hand grip of the series that can be used immediately works almost the same way as t...
Shinano Kenshi
Robot hand (end effector) electric 2 claw robot hand ARH250D-P40
40+ people viewing
The ASPINA robot hand is an end effector for collaborative robots. Large strokes, hollow structures, and detailed adjustments are common features.
Shinano Kenshi
Robot hand (end effector) electric 3 claw robot hand ARH305B
30+ people viewing
The ASPINA robot hand is an end effector for collaborative robots. Large strokes, hollow structures, and detailed adjustments are common features.
Shinano Kenshi
Robot hand (end effector) electric 3 claw robot hand ARH350A
30+ people viewing
The ASPINA robot hand is an end effector for collaborative robots. Large strokes, hollow structures, and detailed adjustments are common features.
Shinano Kenshi
Robot Hand (End effector) Electric 3 Claw Robot Hand ARH305A
30+ people viewing
The ASPINA robot hand is an end effector for collaborative robots. Large strokes, hollow structures, and detailed adjustments are common features.
Izumiya Machinery Co., Ltd.
The best system hand and jigs for factories
30+ people viewing
We will design and create hands and jigs corresponding to various works and specifications, and propose optimal systems to customer factories. * T...
Shinano Kenshi
Robot hand (end effector) electric 2 claw robot hand ARH250D-P80
30+ people viewing
The ASPINA robot hand is an end effector for collaborative robots. Large strokes, hollow structures, and detailed adjustments are common features.
