Abstract: Methods and apparatus for grasping and moving workpieces are disclosed. A device in accordance an exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises a disk including an outer edge. The disk has a generally planar resting shape in which the disk has a first diameter and a first edge length. A apparatus for holding the disk in a folded shape in which the disk defines a cavity is also provided. In a preferred embodiment, the disk is in an unstretched state while the disk is assuming the folded shape so that the disk may assume the resting shape by unfolding without unstretching. Also in a preferred embodiment, the disk has a second diameter and a second edge length while the disk is assuming the folded shape, where the second diameter is smaller than the first diameter and the second edge length is substantially equal to the first edge length.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for grasping and moving workpieces are disclosed. A device in accordance an exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises a disk including an outer edge. The disk has a generally planar resting shape in which the disk has a first diameter and a first edge length. A means for holding the disk in a folded shape in which the disk defines a cavity is also provided. In a preferred embodiment, the disk is in an unstretched state while the disk is assuming the folded shape so that the disk may assume the resting shape by unfolding without unstretching. Also in a preferred embodiment, the disk has a second diameter and a second edge length while the disk is assuming the folded shape, where the second diameter is smaller than the first diameter and the second edge length is substantially equal to the first edge length.