Endeffectori

Endeffectori (plural of end effector in Italian) refer to the devices mounted at the end of a robotic arm or manipulator that interact with the work environment to perform a task. In English, the term is end effector or end-effectors. Endeffectori are the functional interface between a robot and the objects it handles, shapes, or senses, converting the robot’s internal motions into external actions.

Common types of end effectors include grippers (mechanical, pneumatic, or vacuum-based) that grasp and release objects; magnetic or suction-based devices; cutting, welding, or drilling tools; and sensing or probing heads that measure dimensions, surface quality, or force. Some end effectors combine multiple functions or are designed as modular, interchangeable tools to adapt a robot to different tasks. Actuation can come from the robot’s joints or from independent power sources, and many systems use tool changers to swap end effectors automatically.

Key design considerations include payload capacity, reach and precision, repeatability, and compatibility with the robot’s control system and tool interface standards. Environmental factors such as temperature, dust, moisture, and cleanliness also influence selection. End effectors often require careful alignment with the tool center point and orientation to ensure correct task execution and safe operation, especially in automation or collaborative robotics contexts.

Applications span manufacturing, packaging, material handling, laboratory automation, surgery, and space exploration, where the end effector enables a robot to interact with real-world objects in a repeatable, programmable manner.