Abstract: A robotic tool changer and systems and methods for controlling the operation of a robotic tool changer are provided. The tool changer, methods, and systems include a robot-side component mountable to a robot arm end interface; a tool-side component adapted to engage a tool; a first slave module associated with the robot-side component and adapted to communicate with a first master module; and a second master module associated with the robot-side component and adapted to communicate with a second slave module associated with the tool. The second slave module may include a temporary power supply, for example, a battery or a capacitor, for instance, a super capacitor. Aspects of the invention are advantageous for performing high-speed robotic connections and disconnections, and for providing tool and tool changer performance information gathering.

Abstract: A robotic arm-end gripping device having a belt-driven drive train is provided. The gripping device includes a set of opposing gripping arms, a variable speed motor, a motor controller adapted to control the operation of the variable speed motor, a drive train driven by the variable speed motor, the drive train comprising a drive belt, a plurality of sheaves, and a plurality of belt clamps mounted to the drive belt and operatively connected to the opposing gripping arms, and a robot arm-end interface. The gripping device may include a fail-safe method and apparatus for prevent the dropping of the gripped article. The belt drive and associated controls provide smooth and rapid operation. The gripping device may be adapted to any arm-end tooling.