OnRobot A/S is a combination of previously separate firms Perception Robotics of the US, Hungary-based OptoForce and Denmark-based On Robot.
The technology underlying the gecko gripper is based on the model of the gecko, which can climb on smooth surfaces. The reptile uses physical forces of attraction between foot and surface (van der Waals forces). Based on the work of NASA (JPL) and Stanford University, Perception Robotics originally developed the gripping solution for manufacturing industry use in collaboration with NASA-JPL.
In contact with smooth and rough materials, millions of tiny stalks on the robot arm produce a highly adhesive effect, with which, for example, sheet metal or glass pieces can be moved. The gecko gripper arm was deployed in sheet metal processing in 2017 - Perception Robotics sees an important future market in the manufacture of solar panels.
