Work

A Linearly Deformable Pneumatic Scalable Microgripper for Universal Mid‐Air Micromanipulation

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The manipulation of microscale components with complex shape like semiconductors, 3D printed microparts, and optical lenses, remains challenging due to strong surface forces and limitations of existing methods. A 3D‐printed soft pneumatic microgripper capable of rectilinear deformation is presented in this paper. It addresses these challenges through a concave design with two operational modes (snap and continuous) and an integrated adhesion‐reducing mask. Fabricated with IP‐PDMS two‐photon polymerisation 3D printing, the microgripper achieves a 40 minimum operation diameter and demonstrates a substrate‐free release force as low as 11.1 nN with an adhesion switching ratio of 373 in the normal direction. Combined with rigid alignment, the device enables universal pick‐and‐place over a range of micro‐objects and mid‐air transition of ultralight components (≈1.14 ) in confined spaces. With over 30000 actuation cycles without performance degradation, this scalable design can execute complex manipulation tasks through a multi‐gripper system as demonstrated.

Source: Advanced Science

DOI: 10.1002/advs.202513679

Authors: Jiawei Yi, Wissem Haouas, Gwenn Ulliac, Kanty Rabenorosoa

Institutions: Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Franche-Comté Électronique Mécanique Thermique et Optique - Sciences et Technologies, Université Marie et Louis Pasteur

Language: English

Topic: Adhesion, Friction, and Surface Interactions

Subfield: Mechanics of Materials

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $6,730

Funders: Agence Nationale de la Recherche, Conseil régional de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté