Augmentation of grasp robustness using intrinsic tactile sensing

The authors discuss the application of intrinsic tactile sensing (ITS) to grasp and manipulation control. A brief description of ITS, i.e., contact sensing based on force/torque measurements at fingertips, is provided. A method for using sensory feedback in the control of grasp forces to augment grasp robustness against slippage is discussed with respect to a simple grasp type; simulation and experimental data are provided. The possible generalization of this sensor-driven approach to the control of optimal grasp force in complex grasp configurations is addressed.<>