All Categories
History
This section provides an overview for robot hands as well as their applications and principles. Also, please take a look at the list of 13 robot hand manufacturers and their company rankings. Here are the top-ranked robot hand companies as of January, 2025: 1.RAD, 2.RightHand Robotics, Inc., 3.Soft Robotics.
Table of Contents
Categories Related to Robot Hands
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.
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.
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.
Robot hands can be broadly classified into two types: gripping type and suction 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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
*Including some distributors, etc.
Sort by Features
Sort by Area
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Ranking as of January 2025
Derivation Method| Rank | Company | Click Share |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | RAD |
27.8%
|
| 2 | RightHand Robotics, Inc. |
9.2%
|
| 3 | Soft Robotics |
7.9%
|
| 4 | Vishwa Robotics |
7.6%
|
| 5 | Kinova inc. |
7.1%
|
| 6 | Piab |
6.6%
|
| 7 | OnRobot US Inc. |
6.3%
|
| 8 | CIM SYSTEMS, INC. |
6.2%
|
| 9 | Inspire-Robots Technology Co., Ltd. |
6.1%
|
| 10 | Nitta Corporation |
6.0%
|
Derivation Method
The ranking is calculated based on the click share within the robot hand page as of January 2025. 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
Newly Established Company
Company with a History
*Including some distributors, etc.
*Including some distributors, etc.
| Country | Number of Companies | Share (%) |
|---|---|---|
|
United States of America
|
5 | 45.5% |
|
Japan
|
2 | 18.2% |
|
China
|
1 | 9.1% |
|
Sweden
|
1 | 9.1% |
|
Canada
|
1 | 9.1% |
|
United Kingdom
|
1 | 9.1% |
90 products found - Page 2
90 products - Page 2
Sunk Japan Co., Ltd.
760+ people viewing
Last viewed: 9 hours ago
Standard Response
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...
2 models listed
Fuji Seiko Co., Ltd.
110+ people viewing
Last viewed: 22 hours ago
Standard Response
■High float greatly reduces the time required for teaching A lightweight, high-strength body and high float function are achieved through additive ...
Fuji Seiko Co., Ltd.
120+ people viewing
Last viewed: 1 day ago
Standard Response
■Ultra lightweight hand compatible with small robots Achieved a hand shape that fits the workpiece using "lightweight materials" and "molding techn...
Matsumoto Machine Industry Co., Ltd.
40+ people viewing
Last viewed: 6 hours ago
■Measurement method The robot hand incorporates a linear scale manufactured by Magnescale. By directly measuring the workpiece with a minimum resol...
Combum Co., Ltd.
330+ people viewing
Last viewed: 14 minutes ago
■Features Long and narrow workpieces where it is difficult to secure suction area (frames, assets, etc.) *Other model numbers are available.
10 models listed
Combum Co., Ltd.
230+ people viewing
Last viewed: 5 hours ago
■Features ・In addition to the conventional built-in type, we also now have an external vacuum source type and an ultra-compact type that can handl...
3 models listed
Combum Co., Ltd.
270+ people viewing
Last viewed: 12 hours ago
■Features ・In addition to the conventional built-in type, we also now have an external vacuum source type and an ultra-compact type that can handl...
3 models listed
Combum Co., Ltd.
360+ people viewing
Last viewed: 20 minutes ago
■Features ・In addition to the conventional built-in type, there is also a type with an external vacuum source and an ultra-compact type that can h...
4 models listed
Combum Co., Ltd.
120+ people viewing
Last viewed: 10 minutes ago
■What is the robot hand kit? As a pioneer in vacuum equipment, Myotoku has made it possible to use all the parts necessary for a robot hand, includ...
Combum Co., Ltd.
130+ people viewing
Last viewed: 1 day ago
■What is the robot hand kit? As a pioneer in vacuum equipment, Myotoku has made it possible to use all the parts necessary for a robot hand, includ...
Combum Co., Ltd.
120+ people viewing
Last viewed: 13 hours ago
■What is the robot hand kit? As a pioneer in vacuum equipment, Myotoku has made it possible to use all the parts necessary for a robot hand, includ...
Combum Co., Ltd.
140+ people viewing
Last viewed: 1 hour ago
■What is the robot hand kit? As a pioneer in vacuum equipment, Myotoku has made it possible to use all the parts necessary for a robot hand, includ...
Combum Co., Ltd.
140+ people viewing
Last viewed: 1 hour ago
■What is the robot hand kit? As a pioneer in vacuum equipment, Myotoku has made it possible to use all the parts necessary for a robot hand, includ...
Combum Co., Ltd.
240+ people viewing
Last viewed: 12 hours ago
■The best hand for suctioning bags The built-in large suction flow rate ejector overcomes air leakage and ventilation of bags, and the thick sponge...
2 models listed
Combum Co., Ltd.
180+ people viewing
Last viewed: 1 hour ago
■It is now possible to suction bag workpieces that had been given up on suction. It is now possible to suction bag workpieces with large deformatio...
2 models listed
Combum Co., Ltd.
530+ people viewing
Last viewed: 1 hour ago
■Features ・Made of highly durable TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer), greatly reducing the number of man-hours required for replacement. ...
10 models listed
Combum Co., Ltd.
380+ people viewing
Last viewed: 5 hours ago
■Features ・Further improves convex surface tracking ability compared to flat type, attracts workpieces of various shapes ・Selectable foreign matt...
9 models listed
