US Patent 8460277 End effector with release actuator

An end effector is disclosed that includes a tool including a drive configured to be coupled to and drive an engaging member for engaging a workpiece and a release member configured to be displaced to permit decoupling of the engaging member from the drive. The end effector also includes a housing configured to receive at least a portion of the tool and a release actuator disposed at least partially outside of the housing and coupled to the housing to permit movement between a first position and a second position to displace the release member to permit decoupling of the engaging member from the drive.