Abstract: The present invention provides a clutch connected between a robot or like and an attached end of arm tooling device (EOAT). The clutch includes two plates having a fixed relationship with one another. Excessive loading on the EOAT beyond predetermined amounts causes the plates to separate from one another. Any deformation in the fixed position of the plates with respect to one another will cause an instantaneous diminishing of a load transmitted between the two plates.

Abstract: Tool changing apparatus for a multi-axis manipulator for selectively receiving and holding one of at least two different work tools. Each of the work tools is mounted on an upstanding table and is provided with a substantially vertical plate and a substantially horizontal plate. A support assembly is provided on the manipulator that is adapted to be locked to the vertical plate on one of the work tools for performing a programmed work cycle after which the work tool is returned and deposited on the upstanding table under program control and the manipulator is then locked to the vertical plate of the other work tool for performing additional operations.