Advanced Humanoid Robotic Hand Technologies

About this technology

Overview

NASA and General Motors, two organizations at the forefront of robotics, have developed the Robonaut 2 (R2) – a state-of-the-art, dexterous, humanoid robot capable of performing tasks in an automated fashion (or via teleoperation). The technology developed throughout the project represents the cutting edge of autonomous, humanoid robotics. These technologies are available for licensing, both in a modular fashion or as an integrated system, to enhance your robotic products. Please see the Related Links section below for information on additional R2 robotics technologies, including those related to arms, interface/control, and sensor systems. R2’s hand and forearm assembly, the topic of this flyer, is designed to approximate closely the capabilities of the human hand. The assembly is a completely self-contained unit featuring high dexterity, fine force control, and advanced sensing that enables the grasping and actuation of a broad array of tools. Relocation of components (e.g., motors, avionics) to the forearm makes room for increased sensing in the fingers and palm, where it is needed most.