Soft Robotic Gripper for Camera Module Ring Handling: Precision Pick and Place Automation Solution

In camera module manufacturing and 3C electronics automation, small precision metal components often require highly accurate and reliable handling solutions.This application focuses on the automated handling of metal camera module rings. The customer required a solution to pick four metal rings simultaneously from a material tray and place them into a testing fixture.The workpiece specifications:

• Component type: Metal camera module ring
• Inner diameter: 13.24 mm
• Height: 2.23 mm
• Handling method: Multi-piece robotic pick and place

Due to the small size, thin profile, and strict positioning requirements, this type of component presents challenges for traditional automation equipment.

For small metal rings used in camera modules, traditional gripping methods such as vacuum grippers or rigid mechanical grippers may face several challenges，Therefore, manufacturers need a more flexible robotic gripper solution for precision component handling

Soft Robotic Gripper Solution for Camera Module Ring Automation

To meet the customer's requirements, several soft robotic gripper models were tested:

• DAC-3B13[H]/S
• DAC-3B18[P]/S
• DAC-4H18[H]/S

The test results showed that all three models achieved good gripping performance and fully met the customer's space requirements.The soft robotic gripper uses a flexible gripping structure that can adapt to the inner diameter of the metal ring. This allows the robot to securely pick multiple components from the tray and accurately place them into the testing fixture.Compared with traditional rigid tooling, the soft robotic gripper provides:

• Flexible adaptation for small precision parts;
• Stable multi-component picking capability;
• Reduced risk of surface damage;
• Better compatibility with compact automation systems;
• Faster integration into robotic pick and place applications

To verify the actual positioning accuracy, the customer requested an on-site validation test.During the test, an XYZ three-axis testing system was used to evaluate the repeatability of the robotic handling process.The on-site test confirmed that the soft robotic gripper solution is suitable for camera module assembly automation and precision electronic component handling

Why Choose Soft Robotic Grippers for Electronics Automation?

With the increasing demand for miniaturized electronic components, manufacturers need automation solutions that can handle smaller, more complex parts.Soft robotic grippers provide an alternative approach compared with traditional end effectors by combining flexibility and precision.They are widely suitable for:

• Camera module assembly lines;
• 3C electronics manufacturing;
• Precision metal component handling;
• Automated inspection systems;
• Robotic loading and unloading applications.

For challenging small-part automation tasks, a flexible robotic gripper can help improve production efficiency while maintaining product quality.