Gripper 3.0 for Parallax Small Robots

• Gripper 3.0 for Parallax Small Robots
• CNC-machined end-effector design
• Provides durable and lightweight performance
• Single-servo actuates, grab-and-lift motion
• Compatible with Parallax small robot chassis
• Easy to assemble

The Gripper 3.0 for Parallax Small Robots is a precision CNC-machined end-effector design for all of Parallax’s small robots. The single servo actuates the grab-and-lift motion with only a small amount of linear movement.

The tension between the Gripper plates is determined by a torsion spring which also holds the plates down until the Gripper has closed on the object, with remaining servo motion lifting the object from the surface.

The programmer only needs to determine the servos opened/lowered, closed/raised position, and the rate at which the transition occurs without consideration of the width of the object (provided it fits within the Gripper’s paddles).

The kinds of objects the Gripper can easily pick up include 3D-printed cylinders, small wooden square blocks, and most lighter things about 1-½" in diameter and up to an ounce in weight.

Adding foam tape to the paddles (included) and a small counterweight to the chassis (not included) may increase lift capacity. Take these parameters into consideration when designing autonomous robot contest rules.