Robot End Effectors

Robot End Effectors

Robot End Effector - An end effector is a device which is attached to the robot’s wrist to perform a specific task. The task might be work part handling, spot welding, spray painting etc. The end effector is the special purpose tooling which enables the robot to perform a particular job.

End effectors may be classified as

(i) Grippers

(ii) Tools.

Grippers are used to hold either workparts (in pick and place operations, machine loading, or assembly work) or tools. There are

(a) Mechanical grippers where friction or the physical configuration of the griper retains the object.

 (b) Suction or vacuum cups used for flat objects.

(C) Magnetized gripper devices used for ferrous objects.

(d) Hooks used to lift parts off conveyors.

(e) Scoops or, ladles used for fluids powders, pellets etc.

Pivot action gripper.

Slide action gripper

Double gripper pivot action

Tools are fastened directly to the robot wrist and become the end effectors.

1. Spot welding gun.

2. Arc welding tools.

3. Spray painting.

4. Drilling spindle.

5. Grinders, wire brushes etc.