BMBF-Project PORTASOR (Portable Soft Robot Arms)

New Generation of portable soft robotic arms and grippers based on the technology of flexible fluidic joints, for every day service tasks.

Funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research Framework Program "Micro Systems 2004-2009".

Goal of the PORTASOR project is the development of a new generation of soft and lightweight robotic arms and grippers with inherent compliance. The fields of application are everyday assistance and service tasks. Small impact and inherent compliance allow for direct human-robot interaction.

Virtual Prototype of the Demonstrator   Double click on picture starts video

The main objectives are:

•      Process and material development for Flexible Fluidic Actuators and compliant structural elements with outstanding statical and dynamical properties
•      Development of highly integrated light-weight structures for arms and grippers
•     Sensor development
•     FEM analysis of flexible inflatable structures

Flexible fluidic arm drive with integrated control components

Gripper Joints with 18 mm and 12 mm Actuaters