Design
Claw Machine
A type of arcade vending game where players use a joystick to control a mechanical claw, attempting to grab prizes.
Design Process
To begin designing the machine, I first created a moodboard to define the visual direction I wanted for the project. At the same time, I established the main design requirements for the machine:
- Modularity
- Avoiding the use of glue
- Organic aesthetic
After that, I started sketching different ideas for the claw machine.
Material Selection
The most challenging part was finding a complete solution that met all my requirements, especially because I did not want the screws to be visible. At first, I considered three possible materials for the enclosure:
- 3D printing
- Wood
- Metal
After analysing the different options, I decided to build it out of wood. This choice allowed me to complete the 3D model in SolidWorks. Once I had figured out how to make almost all the parts, I started assembling the box.
3D Model
Kerf
During class we got introduced to the term "kerf", which is the quantity of material that is removed during the cutting process.
Process
To understand the kerf better, I made small test pieces. I created two simple shapes to check how well they fit together using different joints.
After defining the overall shape of the machine, I continued sketching and started considering which material would be the most suitable for building it.
STEPS TO MAKE THE PIECES:
I started sketching my pieces, here i used equations and included the kerf variable. This is the piece that i used initially to test the kerf. I just resized it for my kit.
Fabrication
What I Learned in the Safety Training
It is important to monitor the laser cutter while it is operating in order to prevent accidents. Additionally, it is not advisable to stare directly at the laser for extended periods, as it may damage your eyesight.
Laser Cutting Process
Our Fab Lab laser cutter works with DXF 2010 files. Initially, I exported the file as a DWG into AutoCAD and then converted it to DXF. Later, I tried exporting directly from SolidWorks, which also worked properly.
SmartCarve
In the control panel I imported the files into SmartCarve. I used different colors for each operation and changed the order.
+ Engraving should always be done before cutting.
Laser Parameters
Since I had previously used the laser cutter, I already knew the appropriate parameters. In this case for cutting, I used a maximum power of 70, a minimum power of 60, and a work speed of 20. To engrave I used a maximum power of 25, a minimum power of 20, and a work speed of 200.
Laser Parameters
Before cutting, I used the "Go Scale" function to preview the laser path. After checking that everything was in the correct position, I adjusted the height of the laser head using two 3 mm MDF pieces. Then, I started the cutting process.
Parameters for the laser cutter
Engraving and fillings
| Power | Work speed |
|---|---|
| 20 (min) 25 (max) | 200 |
MDF 3mm
| Power | Work speed |
|---|---|
| 60 (min) 70 (max) | 20 |
MDF/ Acrylic 5.5mm
| Power | Work speed |
|---|---|
| 85 (min) 75 (max) | 16 |
Final result
My intention this week was to make an interactive kit to explore and try diferent shapes. Here are some of the configuarations that i was able to do with the kit:
Assembly
This week I cut out the Coca-Cola logo for a bottle prototype.
For the vinyl cutting I used a Cut Studio GS2-24 machine:
STEPS TO MAKE THE PIECES:
I started sketching my pieces, here i used equations and included the kerf variable. This is the piece that i used initially to test the kerf. I just resized it for my kit.
Final result
At the end I really liked how it tured out.
