Make a three-finger claw to grasp objects by pulling a single straw. Each finger of this mechanical claw is a four-bar linkage. This allows the machine to be handled by pushing and pulling a straw through a connector to open and close the 3 fingers of the claw around objects.

Please note this resource was tailored for US schools and may require adjustments to suit UK schools.

🇬🇧 Teacher Notes

Overview and Objectives

Materials

Make moving joints for holding the fingers of the claw

Make bent beams for the claws

Attach the joints and beams together to make 3 fingers for the claw

Build a beam to become the handle

Attach a finger to the joint on the handle

Slide a connector along the handle

Fit the connector into the finger

Repeat and attach second finger

Attach the last finger

Fit a blue connector into the end of the handle

Test your claw with picking up objects!

Build

Challenges

STEAM Classroom

United States

Engineering Design

Forces

Simple Machines

Build a Mechanical Claw