Abstract: A vacuum control method (P) for a pneumatic gripping system (10) which includes a vacuum source (26), a plurality of gripping members (13), and a pneumatic circuit (20), the pneumatic circuit (20) comprising a plurality of valves (27), each valve (27) being associated with a corresponding set of gripping members and being configured to switch between a closed position (F) and an open position (O), the pneumatic gripping system (10) including a vacuum sensor (28) adapted to measure a vacuum level in the pneumatic circuit (20) between the vacuum source (26) and the plurality of valves (27).

Abstract: A robotic pneumatic gripper including a robotic arm; an effector including at least one gripping member such as a suction cup or foam; and a pneumatic circuit for controlled negative pressure at the at least one gripping member, the pneumatic circuit including a vacuum source; a main pipe connecting the vacuum source to the gripping member; and an auxiliary pipe connected to the main pipe at one or more nodes, the auxiliary pipe being provided with a valve configured to switch between a closed position where the auxiliary pipe is closed off, and an open position where the node is fluidly connected to the atmosphere.