3D Printed Claw Machine

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for assembling a fully 3D-printed mechanical claw machine. This claw machine is made almost entirely from 3D printed elements that anyone can recreate with the correct files, ready to upload and print. The design does not require any electronics or additional hardware aside from four acrylic/plexiglass sheets (1mm thick). Assembly may require alterations to the build or super glue. The 3D model is very simple for people of any age or experience level to recreate and is meant to encourage everyone to see engineering and 3D printing as both simple and enjoyable! For visual reference, please check out the original creator's video at Toast Channel. This version is scaled up from the original to be a full sized claw machine.

Parts List (all 3-d printed unless said otherwise)

1. Body:

1. Rack X-Axis - x1
2. Rack Y-Axis - x1
3. Rack Top - x1
4. Rail X-Axis 1 - x1
5. Rail X-Axis 2 - x1
6. Rail X-Axis 3 - x1
7. Rail Y-Axis 1 - x1
8. Rail Y-Axis 2 - x1
9. Rail Y-Axis 3 - x1
10. Rack Stabilizer - x4
11. Pillar - x4
12. Crank Grip - x2
13. Crank Handle - x2
14. Container Base - x1
15. Claw Holder - x1
16. Acrylic Sheets (not 3-d printed)

2. Claw:

1. Claw (for large capsule) - x3
2. Claw (for small capsule) - x3
3. Claw Shaft Top - x1
4. Claw Shaft - x1
5. Pusher - x1

3. Base:

1. Base Bottom Half - x1
2. Base Top Half - x1
3. Base Peg - x6
4. Collection Flap - x1

1. Connect the Pillars to the Base Bottom Half.
2. Insert Plexiglass/Acrylic Sheets (cut into four 11.8cm x 9.8cm panels) into the pillar grooves.
3. Secure the Base Top Half onto the structure.

1. Attach Rack Y-Axis on top of Rack X-Axis.
2. Glue Rail X-Axis 3 and Rail Y-Axis 3 to the Claw Holder.
3. Assemble the remaining Rail X and Y-Axis parts.
4. Attach Rack Stabilizers (2 each) on top of X and Y-Axis Racks.

1. Attach the Claw Shaft to the Claw Holder.
2. Secure the Claw Shaft Top in place.
3. Choose either the large or small claw variant and attach three claw pieces accordingly.
4. Ensure the claw mechanism moves smoothly.

1. Insert the Crank Handles and Crank Grips.
2. Align them with the X and Y-Axis Racks to allow manual movement

1. Attach the Collection Flap to the Base Bottom Half.
2. Ensure smooth opening and closing motion.

Final Adjustments & Notes

1. Test the claw movement by turning the cranks and adjusting as needed.
2. If capsule tops and bottoms fit too loosely or tightly, adjust STL file scaling by ±0.5%.
3. Tall prints (e.g., Pillars, Claw Shaft, X/Y-Axis Rails) should be printed upright with a brim to avoid failure.
4. Super glue can be used for additional stability where necessary.
5. For best results, use MakerWorld or Printables for fun prize designs.

How to Play

1. Use the X and Y-Axis cranks to position the claw over a capsule.
2. Rotate the claw shaft to lower and grab a capsule.
3. Rotate the shaft again to lift the capsule.
4. Move the claw to the Collection Tub and push the Pusher to release the prize.

Conclusion

This 3D-printed claw machine provides a fun, mechanical way to enjoy arcade-style prize collection. By following these steps, you should have a fully functional, non-electronic claw machine ready to go!

For additional support, refer to the video tutorial on Toast Channel.