Powerful Robotic Arm - Opening and Closing Mechanism

The "Powerful Robotic Arm - Opening and Closing Mechanism" is a modification of the elastic lazy tongs. It was redesigned to achieve automation of the arm's movement. However, controlling elasticity with a motor proved difficult, as it was more suitable for rotational motion. Therefore, the modification was made to control the arm's opening and closing through rotation.

※ Let's first appreciate the photos of the results from the students of Qiaoxing Elementary School in Nantou County.

☆ The image below shows the elastic lazy tongs.

☆ The image below shows the rotating opening and closing mechanical arm.

☆ The image below shows the rotating opening and closing mechanical arm with motor control, capable of automatic opening and closing.

☆ The image below shows the completed form of the rotating opening and closing mechanical arm.

※ Construction Method:

Step 1 - Assemble the main body.

Step 2 - Attach the upper two short axles.

Step 3 - Modify the claw used for grasping objects, making it thicker, and install the axle adapter for controlling rotation direction.

Step 4 - Assemble the claw and main body.

Step 5 - Attach small gears to one end of the short axle.

Step 6 -

Step 7 - Assemble the front support for the rotating long axle.

Step 8 - Assemble the front support.

Step 9 - Front support assembly completed.

Step 10 - Assemble the rear support.

Step 11 - Rear support assembly completed.

Step 12 - Prepare the rotating long axle and worm gear.

Step 13 - Adjust the claw's positions evenly and then install the rotating long axle and worm gear.

Step 14 - Completed image - Closed.

Step 15 - Completed image - Open.

※ Explanation of Scientific Principle:

This "Robotic Arm" utilizes a worm gear to transmit rotational force to two gears, dividing the force in half. Both gears rotate simultaneously. In this structure, one full rotation of the worm gear corresponds to one notch of the gear. This design is a labor-saving device that reduces the speed of gear rotation. The gears subsequently drive the claw to open and close in sync, completing the entire mechanism. Through various functional building blocks, force is transformed in form and direction. Adding a motor to the force application point allows the arm to rotate automatically, reversing direction when the positive and negative polarity is switched. The addition of the motor allows for creative experimentation by students, with no fixed steps.

※ Video of operation after motor added