An end effector is a tool or device that is connected to the end of a robotic arm. You can find the exact meaning in the dictionary. This end effector works like the hand of the robotic arm. This part interacts with the outside environment. The structure, programming, and hardware of the robot end effector depend upon the kind of work it will perform.
In the making, a robotic arm can help with a number of tasks without making any modifications to its programming or hardware of its end effector. In case the robot needs to pick up things, this type of robot is known as the gripper and is the most effective robot end effector. On the other hand, if a robot needs to tighten the screws then it must be attached with an end effector that has the capability to spin.
End effectors used in engineering consist of:
- brushes
- cutting tools
- magnets
- screwdrivers
- drills
- vacuum cups
- cameras
- grippers
- sanders
- anti-collision sensors
- spray guns
- welding guns
How A Robot End Effector Works?
The working of any robot end effector is very simple to understand. These end effectors are made to perform different kinds of processes. These end effectors work according to the structure, programming and hardware followed in their manufacturing. For example, a gripper end effector is made to pick things up and place them at a certain place.
How To Choose The Right Robot End Effector?
There are some things that should be kept in mind when choosing the right robot end effector for your work needs.
What Is The Task Itself?
When you choose a robot end effector, it is very important to keep in mind the kind of work robot will perform. There are different robots available to perform different tasks and you should choose the one that is most suitable for your desired task.
What Is Cycle Time?
The necessary speed for closing and opening the gripper determines the cycle time of the end effector. You should keep in mind that the weight of the gripper also affects the cycle time of an end effector.
What Are Precision Needs?
The processes that involve sorting the parts need the grippers that can easily adapt to position and size differences. The assembly work needs high precision that might comprise a mechanical end-effector gripper activated by the servo-electric motor.
What Is Environmental Need?
As we have mentioned that there are different types of end effector available in the market and we can choose the kind of end effector that suits us the best. So, you should always keep in mind the kind of work environment before you choose an end effector. There are different end effectors that are suitable in different work environments.
You should never make the mistake of buying a robot end effector before you do proper research. These robot end effectors are not cheap and you really don’t want to regret wasting your money on something that you don’t even need. Follow the above things to find the robot end effector that is most suitable for your work.
Industrial Robots 