Parallel Gripper Kit A - Channel Mount

This is the Parallel Gripper Kit A, a simple and durable robotics kit that is great for "getting a grip" on pretty much any robotics project! Designed for use with any standard size Hitec servo with a 24T spline, the gripper kit is easy to assemble and requires only a Phillips Head Screwdriver. This gripper is capable of opening, in a parallel motion, 2.8" wide max, has an overall body dimension of 5" long by 4.1" wide, and offers both 0.77" and 1.5" hub patterns for easy mounting on Actobotics components.

Actobotics is a robotics building system based around extruded aluminum channels, gears, precision shafts, and ball bearings. Thanks to the two standardized hole patterns, nearly all Actobotics components can be intuitively connected together. The wide range of components makes building complex electromechanical prototypes or finished projects a reality.

Note: This kit does NOT include a servo. Check the Recommended Products section below for great standard size servo options.

  • Opening Width - 2.8" (71.12mm)
  • Hub Pattern - 0.77" & 1.5"

Parallel Gripper Kit A - Channel Mount Product Help and Resources

Core Skill: Robotics

This skill concerns mechanical and robotics knowledge. You may need to know how mechanical parts interact, how motors work, or how to use motor drivers and controllers.

1 Robotics

Skill Level: Noob - You will be required to put together a robotics kit. Necessary parts are included and steps will be easy to follow. You also might encounter basic robotics components like bearings, mounts, or other hardware and need a general idea of how it goes together.
See all skill levels


Core Skill: DIY

Whether it's for assembling a kit, hacking an enclosure, or creating your own parts; the DIY skill is all about knowing how to use tools and the techniques associated with them.

1 DIY

Skill Level: Noob - Basic assembly is required. You may need to provide your own basic tools like a screwdriver, hammer or scissors. Power tools or custom parts are not required. Instructions will be included and easy to follow. Sewing may be required, but only with included patterns.
See all skill levels


Comments

Looking for answers to technical questions?

We welcome your comments and suggestions below. However, if you are looking for solutions to technical questions please see our Technical Assistance page.

Customer Reviews

2.8 out of 5

Based on 4 ratings:

Currently viewing all customer reviews.

Decent product.

The kit was coated in a fine layer of black plastic dust, presumably from the CNC machine used to make it. Very difficult to clean. Most of the mounting screws to mount the gripper to the base DO NOT FIT, the screws could not be installed, even with a power drill. I had to drill new holes to install the screws. Finaly, the kit will not properly assemble (gripper will not open and close) without a servo installed.

Very poor worksmanship, I would suggest you go buy somewhere else. Disapointing that sparkfun would sell something like this, I expected better.

A few days after originally writing this review, customer service contacted me, and offered to send me a new gripper, fully assembled, free of charge. It arrived after 5 days, very impressed with how helpful CS was, this replacement is working fine now. Quite happy with it.

Screws don't screw in..

Shipment and everything, fine. The product itself? MISERABLE. They literally just have clean holes, you can't even put a screw in them. I had to use a wire to TIE THE PARTS TOGETHER. Like seriously, why? This product is also insanely poorly designed. The holes don't even fit most of the screws, and as stated before, the screw can't go in. It's like putting a screw in a straw, you just push it in and that's it. DO NOT BUY. This is a warning, It will not work and completely waste your time, look somewhere else. I hate having to write negative reviews but, as things stand, I have no choice. Maybe the actual companies products are alright, I don't know, but I'm ashamed of what sparkfun has sold me. If anyone is still considering bumying this product, note that is comes DISSEMBLED and there's only a tutorial on YouTube to help you out.

Sorry for the confusion on this. There are a few holes that are smaller than what would seem normal, but those holes are smaller so that you can tighten the screw into the plastic without needing a nut on the other side. If you apply a little downward pressure while turning the screw it will thread into the smaller holes and fit snugly without a nut though. The reason the kit comes disassembled is so that you have a choice in what servo you use.

Great claw for the price

Students to build their MESA prosthetic arm. It is used in conjunction with the Sparkfun Arduino Red Board. Very durable and easy to assemble. Attachments points are spot on.

I like it

I like it, good quality and grips better than the B kit, however I wish it had parts for both HiTec and Futaba servos instead of only Hi-Tec.

Paul Morton