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Roboticsrobot hardwareStory 02

A robot hand gets useful dexterity from straight-line motion

What changedCartesian Hand replaces a complex anthropomorphic mechanism with two grippers whose fingers move along straight axes. The seven-axis prototype handled 35 objects and transferred to a humanoid platform.

Cartesian Hand grasping and repositioning objects across laboratory and household tasks

The useful part

Why it matters

Robot teams may get useful repositioning and bimanual-style manipulation from a cheaper, easier-to-control mechanism than an anthropomorphic hand.

Keep in mind

Good to know

The demonstrations are broad for a prototype, but durability, manufacturing cost and direct comparisons with commercial grippers are not yet established.

Evidence

Primary source

Cartesian Hand researchers

Read the complete 23 September 2026 edition