Schunk Humanoid Robotics: Pioneer in the development of humanoid robot hands

The Future in the Palm of Your Hand Schunk Founds Spin-Off for Human-Like Robotic Hands

2026-01-23 Source: Schunk | Translated by AI 2 min Reading Time

By founding its own spin-off, Schunk is now bundling its activities in humanoid robotics and positioning itself as a key player in the growing market ...

In order to get an even better grip on both industrial processes and its own future, Schunk has launched a spin-off that focuses on the development of humanoid gripping hands for robots ...(Image: Schunk) — In order to get an even better grip on both industrial processes and its own future, Schunk has launched a spin-off that focuses on the development of humanoid gripping hands for robots ...
(Image: Schunk)

The aim of the Schunk spin-off is therefore to develop modular humanoid robot hands that can be used for industrial applications in order to consistently expand the availability and use of humanoid systems. As a typical pioneer, Schunk is also driving forward the industrial development of humanoid robotics. Based on decades of experience in flexible gripping technology and in cooperation with industrial companies, start-ups and research institutions, Schunk has been opening up new fields of application with its 5-finger gripping hand for over ten years—beyond the purely scientific environment. The newly founded tech spin-off is called Schunk Humanoid Robotics GmbH. Its aim is to help transform innovations into marketable products more quickly when it comes to humanoid robotics. The focus is on the next generation of a modular, anthropomorphic 5-finger gripper hand with an integrated wrist and forearm.

A New 5-Finger Robotic Hand for Industry

The new company is starting from a strong position. According to Schunk, it builds on the company's many years of experience in the automation of handling processes. The existing infrastructure as well as test and development areas in the company's own robot application centers (the "CoLabs") will also be used. The experts also have access to an international network in the field of research and development. A tried-and-tested technology portfolio is also available—supported by a global customer base and established access to the relevant humanoid robotics markets. The next generation of the 5-finger gripper hand is planned as a scalable module for industrial use. A new prototype is already close to deployment.

Schunk is Still Looking for Talented People With An Entrepreneurial Spirit

"There is enormous market potential in humanoid robotics. With the spin-off, we are creating the space for an agile, independent start-up-style company with a strong technological foundation and pronounced market proximity," comments Schunk CTO Timo Gessmann on the decision. This will further expand the company's position as a leading "end-of-arm" partner in robotics and establish a global standard for artificial humanoid hands. The spin-off is also looking for talented people with an entrepreneurial spirit along the entire value chain, from mechatronics and embedded development, artificial intelligence and simulation to system integration and product management. Contact: info@shr-robotics.eu.

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Date: 08.12.2025

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