Robotkäsi

Robotkäsi, literally a robotic hand, is a mechanical or mechatronic device designed to imitate or replace aspects of the human hand's function. It can be an integral part of an autonomous or teleoperated robot or a prosthetic device that enables grasping, manipulation, and dexterous interaction for users with hand impairment. Robotkäsi encompasses a broad range of designs, from simple grippers to highly articulated hands with tactile sensing.

Most robotkäsi use actuators such as electric motors, hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders, and tendon-driven or linkage systems to move joints that approximate finger and thumb motion. Joint arrangements often mimic human anatomy, including metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal joints, with configurations that allow pinch, cylindrical, spherical, and precision grasps. Sensing includes encoders for position, force sensors, and various forms of tactile feedback, which in advanced systems may include soft or flexible skins.

Control methods range from direct teleoperation and preset programs to autonomous manipulation guided by computer vision and AI. Some hands are fully actuated with separate motors at each joint; others are underactuated for simplicity and robustness, using compliant mechanisms to adapt to object shapes. Prosthetic robotic hands commonly rely on myoelectric signals or pattern recognition to translate user intent into grip.

Applications span industrial automation, material handling, surgical robotics, research, and assistive technology. Developments in soft robotics, compliant actuators, and high-fidelity haptics aim to create more versatile, safe, and intuitive robotkäsi that can operate safely alongside humans and delicate objects.