Robotic handling often forces a choice: rigid fingers suit known shapes and positions, while softer grippers accommodate irregular objects but can struggle with heavier loads. In a March 15, 2019 report, MIT described a research prototype developed with Harvard that tries to bridge that gap. A hollow, cone-shaped frame folds around an object when vacuum is applied, combining a flexible exterior with a collapsible internal skeleton. [shared-0ba47d2f39d74a07cce949e6b992125a3b2d025086923aba4ad4d6f6e17894e7]
The mechanism changes what the gripper can take on, not whether it can take on everything. MIT reported tests using a standard robot: the device handled delicate foods without damage and lifted bottles weighing more than four pounds. The researchers also found a clear shape constraint: bottles and cans were easier than flat objects such as books or sandwiches. Computer vision to help select an approach angle and grasp point was proposed as future work, not demonstrated capability. [shared-0ba47d2f39d74a07cce949e6b992125a3b2d025086923aba4ad4d6f6e17894e7]
For manufacturers, broader handling matters only if setup, reliability and total operating costs beat existing tools; the report establishes none of these outcomes. The test is whether the design reduces specialized grippers without shifting costs into sensing or failures. Reliable results across flat and irregular objects—or a costed deployment—would strengthen the case. In 2019, this was a research prototype, not a product for sale. [shared-0ba47d2f39d74a07cce949e6b992125a3b2d025086923aba4ad4d6f6e17894e7]