
This 3D printer-made robotic gripper can be controlled with two inexpensive servos (MG90/SG92R or SG90).
The problem with the servos is that they tend to get hot (even get damaged) when you force then to apply force
continuously . So we are using the same solution LEGO uses: letting a rubber band to close the gripper . The servo will move the clamp to a certain position, from there, the rubber will close it completely. There is a small channel created to leave the horn moving freely once the rubber band starts to close the “hand”, so we are not forcing the servo leaving it to “rest”. Check the video below.
Depending on the force you want the rubber to apply when closing the clamp, (or the length of the rubber band you have) you will need to attach it to the different holes created for two M3 6mm bolts. (image below showing the bolts placed in the “default” holes). The closer to place the bolts to the “wrist” servo, the less strength will be delivered by the robot gripper


Assembling the robotic arm gripper
Bill of materials:
- 3D parts
- 1x 623zz ball bearing
- 1x M3 15mm bolt + washer
- 2x M3 6mm bolt
- 2x SG90 or MG90 (or even SG92R) servos
- 1x M2.5 10mm (or M2 10mm depending on the servo type)
- some short rubber bands
- sticky EVA foam for increase the grip of the claw
1) Get the STL files from here (Thingiverse) Print them as indicated: 20% infill and PLA filament will do the job. Carefully clean the parts, remove any plastic burr, any friction between the elements will dis-align the claw when moving.

2) Insert the 623zz ball bearing into the left nail hole. You might need a small hammer to place it properly. A good alignment of the nail will depend on how well you have inserted the bearing in its channel. A 15mm M3 bol+washer will be used to attach the nail to the base. See upper photo for reference

3) Place the servos. In this case we are using two different servos model, the SG90 (blue) and MG90 (black). The difference: the gears, the MG90 has metal gears so it will last a little bit more than the SG90 (with Nylon gears). Additional, the MG90 will shows less backlash. Use the screws you will find in the servos´ bag to attach then to the base of the robot gripper.



Take a look to the photo above, In order to place the WRIST´s servo as it should, insert the horn as indicated.


NOTE: This gripper has been designed to be 3D printed. It is easy to print, but as every 3D printer-made object it has it disadvantages. If you tighten up the screws too much, you can break the pieces or increase the friction unnecessary. If you notice that the nails of the clamp are not moving freely or there is too much friction, loosen the screws just a little bit.

Screw the 2x M3 6mm bolts as above/below for the rubber band



Glue or stick the FOAM . You are almost there, just need to wrap the rubber band around the bolts heads and you are ready to go.
