Abstract: An end effector for a robotic unit used to manipulate a vehicle door, which includes: a detection module; a transmission member extending into the detection module and configured to generate a detection signal; a toggle configured for engagement with the vehicle door via movement of the end effector along a first (e.g., (generally) vertical) axis; and an interrupter operatively connected to the toggle such that engagement of the toggle with the vehicle door and disengagement of the toggle from the vehicle door displaces the interrupter along a second (e.g., (generally) horizontal) axis between a first position, in which the interrupter interferes with the detection signal to thereby inhibit circuit completion, and a second position, in which the interrupter permits transmission of the detection signal across the detection module to thereby permit circuit completion and inform the robotic unit of engagement between the end effector and the vehicle door.

Abstract: An end effector is disclosed that is configured for connection to a robotic unit used to manipulate a door of a vehicle (e.g., during vehicle painting). The end effector includes a base plate; a sensor that is supported by the base plate; and a piston that is configured for engagement with the door. The piston is operatively connected to an interrupter such that movement (displacement) of the piston causes corresponding movement (displacement) of the interrupter between a first position, in which the interrupter is positioned in alignment with a signal transmitted across the sensor to interfere with the signal and thereby interrupt circuit completion, and a second position, in which the interrupter is out of alignment with the signal transmitted across the sensor to permit circuit completion and thereby inform the robotic unit that the door is present and engaged with the end effector.

Abstract: An end effector is disclosed that is configured for connection to a robotic unit used to manipulate a door of a vehicle (e.g., during vehicle painting). The end effector includes a base plate; a sensor that is supported by the base plate; and a piston that is configured for engagement with the door. The piston is operatively connected to an interrupter such that movement (displacement) of the piston causes corresponding movement (displacement) of the interrupter between a first position, in which the interrupter is positioned in alignment with a signal transmitted across the sensor to interfere with the signal and thereby interrupt circuit completion, and a second position, in which the interrupter is out of alignment with the signal transmitted across the sensor to permit circuit completion and thereby inform the robotic unit that the door is present and engaged with the end effector.