A magneto-rheological clutch assembly for use in an electromechanical system. The clutch assembly includes a motor having a shaft that is coupled to a magneto-rheological clutch. There is also included a gear plate that is attached to the clutch, as well as being connected to a contact plate and pinion gear. The pinion gear engages a corresponding connection of a power operator system. The magneto-rheological clutch prevents damage to the motor power operator system and panel by simulating a slipping condition when a load exceeding a specified tolerance is applied to the panel.