Micro Grippers

Nanoscience Products: Nano Manipulation and Sensing > Micro Grippers

Model Number	Gripper Opening	Drive Voltage	Force Sensor	Data Sheet
FT-G32	0 - 30 µm	0 - 110 V	Yes
FT-G62	0 - 60 µm	0 - 150 V	No
FT-G102	0 - 100 µm	0 - 170 V	Yes

Overview

The FemtoTools FT-G microgrippers are miniaturized tools specifically designed for handling objects ranging from nanometers up to 400 µm in width/diameter. FT-G grippers are ideal for a variety applications including: sample handling, microassembly, micro-factories, biological and biomedical research, and the handling of parts in scanning electron microscopes. The closing & opening of the gripper arms can be controlled with nanometer precision and the model FT-G32 and FT-G102 grippers feature an integrated force sensor (an industry first) for determining gripping force. Unlike other grippers/tweezers that are actuated by thermal expansion, FemtoTools FT-G grippers are electrostatic and do not heat up during operation.

Features & Benefits

Handle micron-sized objects (1 - 400 µm) with nanometer precision
High gripping speed
No heating of gripper arms
High-resolution electrostatic actuation
Unique to the industry, high-resolution gripping force measurement (FT-G32 & FT-G102)
Handle fragile samples
Detection of successful gripping, object size and mechanical properties (FT-G32 & FT-G102)
Air, liquid and vacuum (SEM) compatible
Individually calibrated (more accurate than any other technique)
Insensitive to changes in the environment (temperature, humidity)
Low output signal drift (highly stable)
No performance degradation & no change in calibrated sensitivity over more than 100,000 load cycles
Gripper arms are insulated from the actuator and can be set to an electric potential
Custom gripper arm geometry available
Easily interfaced with your PC through USB and the Gripper Controller (FT-GC01)
Seamless integration with FemtoTools single- or multi-axis stages and complete sensing and assembly systems

Application Areas

High-precision, pick-and-place operations
Microassembly, Nanoassembly
Micro-object sorting
Force-controlled handling of sensitive objects
Compression testing of hydrogel beads and other micro/nanostructures
Bio-research
Sample preparation

Application Examples: Click Here for Videos & Overviews

Working Principle

The FT-G micro grippers feature an array of capacitor electrodes. When applying a voltage to the capacitor electrodes, an electrostatic force is generated and is used for driving the actuated gripper arms. By tuning the voltage, the closing/opening motion of the gripper can be controlled with nanometer precision. (The gripper arms are initially open and can be closed entirely.) The FT-G32 and the FT-G102 Force Sensing Microgripper feature an integrated force sensor to measure gripping force. This force feedback greatly enhances the efficiency and reliability of automated microhandling systems and assembly processes. The integrated force sensor is individually tested and calibrated to guarantee precise measurements. A calibration data sheet is delivered for each device. The gripper arms are electrically insulated from the rest of the device, which allows for immersion of the gripper arms into liquid (up to ~2.5 mm). The actuation and sensing elements of the FT-G grippers are fabricated using MEMS (micro-electromechanical systems) technology. Single crystalline silicon featuring superior mechanical and electrical properties is used as a base material.

Requirements / Recommendations

Our Gripper Controller (FT-GC01) is recommended for interfacing the grippers to your PC. However, some engineers choose to utilize their own suitable equipment.

A micromanipulator will be required to position the gripper. A manipulator with a resolution (or minimum step size) of 0.25 microns is sufficient for most applications. If you're in need of a single- or multi-axis manipulator, an entire custom setup, or anything in between, we can help. Please contact us.

30 µm Micro Gripper with Force Sensor

Microgripper for handling objects up to 30 µm in size. Integrated gripping force sensor. Individually calibrated.

100 µm Micro Gripper with Force Sensor

Microgripper for handling objects up to 100 µm in size. Integrated gripping force sensor. Individually calibrated.