Glossary · Robotics
Tool changer
Also known as: Automatic tool changer, Quick changer
German: Werkzeugwechsler
In robotics, a tool changer is a coupling device between the robot flange and the end effector that lets the robot change tools automatically or manually, usually transferring compressed air, electrical signals and power through the coupling.
- Robotics
In one sentence
A tool changer couples tools to the robot flange so the robot can switch end effectors, passing air, signals and power through.
Example
The robot switches between a gripper and a screwdriver using an automatic tool changer and parks the unused tool in a stand with presence sensors.
How it applies
- Engineering: The master side stays on the robot, the tool side on each tool. Locking must be monitored; many designs keep locking on loss of air to prevent a dropped tool. The changer adds mass and length that count toward Payload and TCP data.
- Commissioning: Tool identification, lock and unlock sensing and the stand positions are tested; each tool needs its own tool data in the controller.
- Documentation: The documentation team should describe the change sequence, the checks that prevent unlocking outside the tool stand, manual release procedures and the maintenance of seals and contacts.
Tool changer vs. end effector
The tool changer is an interface; the End effector is the tool itself. The changer does not perform the task but decides which tool does.