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Medium⏱ time2 hr$ cost15

Servo Robotic Gripper

A single servo and a linkage make a claw that opens and closes to pick up objects.

Start building ↓
fig — working model Result first

The build

Step 01

Build the claw

Make two jaws joined by a pivot linkage.

Step 02

Attach the servo

Connect the servo horn to drive the linkage.

Step 03

Wire control

Use a knob (potentiometer) to set the servo angle.

Step 04

Grip objects

Turn the knob to open and close the jaws.

Working Principle

The servo rotates to a commanded angle; the linkage converts that rotation into the opening and closing of the gripper jaws.

The science behind it

A closer look

Servos hold position using internal feedback, giving precise, repeatable grip — the building block of robot hands.

Take it further

Variables to test

  • 1 Add rubber pads — does grip improve?
  • 2 Limit the angle — how gently can it hold an egg?

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