Discrete and Process Automation

New robotic gripper handles fragile items while lifting up to 55 lbs

21 July 2026

A dexterous robotic hand capable of mimicking human hand movements for factory automation applications has been developed by a Swiss robotics startup.

The Mimic Hand M1 from Mimic Robotics combines pressure-sensitive fingertips and high-resolution force sensing to detect contact forces and location, enabling precise, human-like manipulation. Its tendon-driven design, with actuators housed in the forearm instead of the hand, delivers greater torque, improved durability and force sensing, making it appropriate for artificial intelligence (AI)-powered industrial and manufacturing applications.

Source: Mimic RoboticsSource: Mimic Robotics

Weighing roughly 4 lbs, the Mimic Hand M1 is capable of maintaining a steady cylindrical grip on payloads of more than 55 pounds.

Further, the M1's low-friction, backdrivable joints can detect forces as small as 0.1 newtons, while tactile fingertips sense pressure, shear forces and contact location for the precise handling of fragile objects.

For more on the M1, watch the accompanying video that appears courtesy of Mimic Robotics.

To contact the author of this article, email mdonlon@globalspec.com


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