Abstract: A flexible bellows connecting device which positions an output member has a pair of jacks (1,2) equipped with deformation sensors (12,13). A pair of variable capacity bellows pump reservoirs (3,4) permit predetermined motion of the jacks. An electric motor (19) drives the pump. The sensor signals provide deformation difference signal feedback to the electronic control system which may include a microprocessor (5) for closed loop position control.

Abstract: Movable link device with a plurality of freedom degrees between a carrier element (manipulator arm or the like) and a carried element (tool, and particularly gripping tool). The device comprises a support frame (1) adapted to be secured to the carrier element, a movable frame (2) to which the carried element is fixed, a plurality of jacks (5, 6, 7, 7', 8) arranged between the support frame (1) and the movable frame (2) so as to maintain the latter with respect to the former in a relative position as a function of the deformation states of said jacks, and remote control means (13) to control the jacks and comprising a variable capacity tank associated to each jack and forming therewith a closed fluid circuit. The invention is applicable to robotics in order to move a member with high power and precision.

Abstract: The invention relates to a tactile pick-up for making contact with an object and emitting signals which are representative of the deformation caused by the object. The pick-up comprises a supple layer of variable electrical conductivity as a function of its state of compression, a matrix of measuring electrodes each connected to an output lead, and a large number of conducting elements connected to an electric source fixing their potential at a determined excitation value.