The practical beginnings of human-body augmentation are on us. GM and NASA have partnered to create a "Human Grip Assist" device, which they are calling the Robo-Glove or K-Glove. The tech is pulled from the joint developed Robonaut 2 humanoid robot worker in the International Space Station.
Like in the Robonaut version, the glove is laden with sensors that help it decide what operations to perform. Pressure sensors let the Robo-Glove know it needs to start gripping. At which point the glove starts it actuators pulling in the synthetic tendons inside the glove. The team is boasting that 5-10 pound of human grip strength translates to 15-20 pounds of force in the glove. Actuation is produced via cords within the glove surface. A motor winds the cords up to pull the fingers into themselves. Very much like the tendon/muscle combo in human joints.
Robo-Gloves in use and construction image (via NASA & GM)
GM is squarely fixed on applying the glove in the automotive industry.
GM manufacturing engineering director Dana Komin explained, "When fully developed, the Robo-Glove has the potential to reduce the amount of force that an auto worker would need to exert when operating a tool for an extended time or with repetitive motions. In so doing, it is expected to reduce the risk of repetitive stress injury. We are continuously looking for ways to improve safety and productivity on the shop floor. "
The Robo-Glove houses the actuators and tendons as mentioned above, but also a LCD for programming and diagnostic. A lithium-ion battery attached to the user's belt powers the gloves. Glove materials are constructed by the Oceaneering company (added link for those interested in similar projects). At the moment, third generation prototypes, the gloves weight 2 pounds each. The next gen, production models, are promised to be smaller and lighter than previous iterations.
Although great for workers, I believe medical applications will be a major user. Those who have lost their grip strength, now have it back.
Cabe
Robo-Glove fun facts:
The Robonaut 2 (R2) projects have given GM and NASA 46 patents.
- 21 of which are for the R2's hand.
- 4 apply to the Robo-Glove
