Collaborative robots, or cobots, have transformed automation by enabling safe and efficient human-robot collaboration across industries like manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. A key component of any cobot system is the gripper—the "hand" that interacts with objects and determines the robot’s ability to perform tasks such as assembly, packaging, and material handling. The choice of gripper directly influences a cobot’s versatility, precision, and overall effectiveness. This review examines the most popular gripper types used with cobots—pneumatic, electric, vacuum, and soft grippers—detailing their advantages and exploring the market prospects for cobot grippers. Additionally, it discusses how SCIC-Robot, a supplier of cobots, grippers, and integrated solutions, can differentiate its offerings in this competitive landscape.
Pneumatic grippers are widely used in industrial automation due to their simplicity and robustness. They operate using compressed air and pistons to control their jaws or fingers, typically available in 2-finger or 3-finger configurations. These grippers are versatile and excel in applications like machine tending and assembly.
Advantages:
- Low cost and high grip force: Pneumatic grippers are cost-effective and provide a wide range of gripping strength (10-15kg payloads), making them ideal for handling heavy or sturdy objects.
- Compact and lightweight: Their small size allows operation in tight spaces, a key benefit for cobots in constrained environments.
- Fast response time: Quick actuation supports high-speed tasks like pick-and-place operations.
- Durability: Built to withstand repetitive tasks, they thrive in demanding industrial settings.
However, pneumatic grippers are less adaptable to high-mix, low-volume production, as they are optimized for single part types.
SCIC Advantage: OEM partnerships with SMC-equivalent quality at 20% cost reduction, plus modular air supply kits for rapid deployment.
Electric grippers, powered by motors, are gaining traction for their precision (±0.05mm repeatability) and control. Available in two-jaw or three-jaw designs, they are well-suited for tasks requiring variable force and speed, such as handling electronics or medical devices.
Advantages:
- Precise control: Adjustable gripping force and speed make them perfect for delicate or precise tasks.
- Adaptability: They easily manage different part types, ideal for high-mix environments like machine tending or pick-and-place.
- Seamless integration: Electric grippers sync effortlessly with cobot control systems, boosting automation efficiency.
- Energy efficiency: Unlike pneumatic grippers, they don’t rely on a constant air supply, reducing operational costs.
While they may offer less force than pneumatic options, their flexibility and precision make them a strong choice for cobots.
SCIC Differentiation: Offer servo-electric models with integrated force sensors for micro-assembly tasks, backed by 24-month performance guarantees.
Electric grippers, powered by motors, are gaining traction for their precision (±0.05mm repeatability) and control. Available in two-jaw or three-jaw designs, they are well-suited for tasks requiring variable force and speed, such as handling electronics or medical devices.
Advantages:
- Precise control: Adjustable gripping force and speed make them perfect for delicate or precise tasks.
- Adaptability: They easily manage different part types, ideal for high-mix environments like machine tending or pick-and-place.
- Seamless integration: Electric grippers sync effortlessly with cobot control systems, boosting automation efficiency.
- Energy efficiency: Unlike pneumatic grippers, they don’t rely on a constant air supply, reducing operational costs.
While they may offer less force than pneumatic options, their flexibility and precision make them a strong choice for cobots.
SCIC Differentiation: Offer servo-electric models with integrated force sensors for micro-assembly tasks, backed by 24-month performance guarantees.
Soft grippers, made from flexible materials like silicone or rubber, are designed for delicate or irregular objects. They shine in industries like food processing, electronics, and medical device manufacturing.
Advantages:
- Gentle handling: They manipulate fragile items without damage, perfect for food packaging or delicate assembly.
- Adaptability: Their flexibility allows secure gripping of varied shapes and sizes.
- Safety: Compliant materials enhance safety in human-robot collaboration, minimizing injury risks.
Soft grippers are a rising star in cobot applications, aligning with the demand for flexible automation.
SCIC Portfolio: Customizable food-grade silicone grippers for packaging and medical device handling.
By emphasizing these strengths, SCIC-Robot has positioned itself as a leader in the cobot gripper market, delivering reliable, innovative, and customer-focused solutions.
Post time: Jul-09-2025