HOW THE CLAW WORKS

The coil/solenoid is turned into an electromagnet when current is applied. This draws the cylindrical iron core into the magnet causing the claws to close. Different voltages produce different strengths. The voltages we tend to use are around 25 – 30 on VR1 and 10 to 15 on VR2. Usually there is a 10-15 V difference between the two voltages.

The claw opens when the electromagnet depowers because of gravity pulling the demagnetized iron rod down opens the fingers, dropping the prize. The natural state for the claw to be in under gravity is open.