Coin Operated Claw Machine
My machine functions just like traditional claw machines in arcades but gives you full control over the X,Y and Z axis. The only restriction is time.
Wire the servo motors and their power transistors (I used TIP120). Next, wire the coin trigger switch and status LEDS. I also added a set of 12V LED strip lights to the gantry.
Gameplay
Claw machines are a fun and exciting way to win small prizes or toys. The mechanics are fairly simple: insert a quarter and activate the machine. You then have about 55 seconds to position the claw, grab a prize, and return it to the prize chute. After that, the gantry moves back to the home position and the claw opens, dropping whatever it has inside.
If you’ve ever played a claw machine, then you know how frustrating it can be to get so close and not win. Sometimes it just seems like the claw is rigged to not let you win. In reality, that’s probably not the case.
Instead, state regulations typically focus on keeping the value of prizes low. This is done to prevent claw machines from becoming a form of gambling. But, if a claw machine owner wanted to rig a machine so that it was always harder for players to win, they could do so without breaking any laws.
Most owners don’t want to do this, however, and will only make the claw weaker after a certain amount of games. Some owners will also vary the claw strength when it is moving up and down or when it is traveling with a prize to the prize chute. This is meant to give the impression that the claw is stronger when you think it is about to win, but, in reality, it’s just randomly weakened.
Controls
In a typical game, players insert coins or tokens into the machine to activate the controls. These controls allow the player to move a crane head in front/back and left/right positions. The crane head Cotton Candy Machine closes a claw that will pick up prize merchandise if skillfully and properly manipulated. The control electronics then positions the claw over a prize delivery shoot and releases the item if it is held by the claw.
The claw gripping strength is determined by a circuit including an actuator driver electrically connected to the microprocessor and to the electrical actuator, and issuing and maintaining to the electrical actuator an electrical current proportional to a desired claw gripping force. The control system also monitors current to the electrical actuator and maintains the current substantially constant despite changes in resistance or voltage to the actuator.
In another prior art arrangement, shown in FIG. 6, a potentiometer 70 adjusts a timer circuit 76 to pulse width modulate the amount of current that passes through solenoid 30. This arrangement, however, suffers from significant noise and lacks precision due to the rapid switching of solenoid current.
Some mini claw machines come with toys already inside so that you can start playing right away. This saves money on the initial cost of purchasing your own prizes and also makes the experience more fun because you don’t have to wait for your first round of toys to fill in.
Prizes
The prizes offered by claw machines vary greatly. Some are small Cotton Candy Machine plush toys, while others are more substantial items, such as toys, candy, or even stuffed animals. Some machines also have a selection of fortunes, affirmations, quotes, math problems, or word puzzles. These can add to the fun of playing a game that requires skill.
A mini claw machine can be bought for as little as $20, but the more expensive ones are much more durable and capable of picking up a wider variety of smaller toys or other small gifts. They may also have flashing lights and music, which make them more engaging for children. Some even accept plastic tokens or real coins to simulate arcade-style playing.
Some models of mini claw machines have single joystick controls that move the claw right, left, or forward and backward. Others have three joysticks that offer more precise control. The latter type is more similar to arcade play and is generally considered more authentic.
The JSYN electric claw machine is a great option for anyone looking for an inexpensive way to entertain children and adults. This model includes a set of toys, which will help to get kids hooked on this unique skill game. It also features lights and traditional arcade sounds that will appeal to older players as well.
Maintenance
Whether you are the owner of a large vending route, a Grandma with a game room, or a professional crane and claw stuffed animal arcade vending machine operator, knowing how often your machines will give out a prize is crucial. This can help you make sure you are putting the best merchandise in your machines and that customers perceive value for their money.
Setting the claw strength is simple, but there are some key points to keep in mind. First, be sure to have a set of spare parts on hand for when things go wrong with your machine. You will also want to change out your merchandise on a regular basis. Having fresh merchandise will attract customers and ensure they continue to play your machines.
To set your claw strength, press the drop button on the display until it shows STRONG. Then adjust the first black knob on the panel (marked VRL) to your desired strength.
