Abstract: In a suction-type gripping mechanism having an extensible arm with a suction cup attached to the end thereof for gripping and moving non-porous articles, and a vent hole leading to the interior of the suction cup for breaking the suction when desired, an improved valve mechanism for opening and closing the vent hole, the mechanism comprising a movable valve member mounted on the extensible arm and associated with the vent hole at a location remote from the suction cup, the valve member being movable between a first position where it closes the vent hole and a second position where it opens the vent hole, the valve member being made of a magnetically permeable material; a spring biasing the valve member toward the first position; and a permanent magnet located adjacent the path of movement of the valve member for magnetically overcoming the force of the spring biasing and moving the valve member to the second position when the valve member is adjacent the permanent magnet.