Greifer

Greifer is a German noun meaning "gripper" or "grabber," commonly used in technical contexts to denote a device that grasps and manipulates objects. In robotics and automation literature, Greifer refers to the end effector that closes around a workpiece to pick, hold, or place it. The term is sometimes used interchangeably with "gripper" in English, or as a loanword in German-language texts.

Most Greifer devices are end effectors attached to robotic arms. They vary by actuation method, including pneumatic, hydraulic, and electric drives. Common categories include parallel-jaw grippers, which provide a simple two-finger grasp; angular or three- and four-finger grippers that can adapt to irregular shapes; suction-based vacuum grippers that hold smooth surfaces; and magnetic grippers for ferrous items. End effectors are often augmented with sensors such as position encoders and force/torque sensors to enable feedback control and gentle handling.

Applications span manufacturing, packaging, logistics, and laboratory automation. Grippers are used for picking and placing parts, orienting objects for assembly, or loading components into fixtures. Requirements vary with object geometry, size, weight, surface texture, and fragility. Designing a Greifer involves selecting the grip type, pad materials, and control strategy to ensure reliable, damage-free handling and integration with the robot’s control system.

See also: gripper, end effector, robotics, automation.