end effector

American  

[end i-fek-ter] / ˈɛnd ɪˈfɛk tər /

noun

1. a tool, such as a gripper, vacuum, or drill, affixed to the end of a robotic arm to enable the machine to fulfill a specific purpose.

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Etymology

Origin of end effector

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

end effector

But the trial was scrubbed because of problems with the arm's hand, known in NASAese as an "end effector."

From Time Magazine Archive