Untouchable technique for lifting awkward loads

Bosch Rexroth has developed a device for lifting delicate items without making contact with their surface. The NCT (non-contact transfer) device exploits the Bernoulli principle, using an airflow to create a lifting force.

Rexroth says that the system, which can lift weights up to 600g, is ideal for applications where conventional vacuum suction cups cannot be used because of leakages between the cup and the object being lifted. So, for example, it can lift items such as circuit boards with small perforations, objects with rough surfaces, and soft items such as paper or plastic bags.