The Power Claw was an early prototype for an ultra-strong prosthetic/exoskeletal hand. It had over 100 lbs of gripping force using the simple linear actuator assembly. It was made from solid steel which made it far too heavy to be usable, but I was able to get a feel for the proportions and the effectiveness of the gripper arrangement.
This type of prosthetic, once fully developed, is for those who wish to have an extremely active and dirty lifestyle. Most prosthetics today are dexterous by very delicate. I wanted to work on the other end of the spectrum for those who will want to ride snowmobiles and work in construction.
The Power Claw would also be useful as a kind of "metal glove" for those that want to have a tougher hand for certain jobs.
I intend to re-work this hand in machined aluminum. I've also have found linear actuators that are faster, stronger, and more compact. This prototype will probably be added to the SPExs suit prototype.
These pot hooks were something that I threw together to replace cloth potholders and oven mitts. I wanted something that would not be burned and could be washed easily with other utensils. So I made something that could get a good hold on any kind of handle. I use a pair of them in the kitchen but they are also pretty handy for camping.
"Precarious" is basically the reverse of "Pickup Sticks" or "Jenga." Instead of taking pieces away until the tower falls, players add pieces until the tower falls.
It is a lot of fun to play because it can either be very strategy intensive, for the expert, or just a pastime, for the average player. Changes in the arrangement of the "foundation" blocks changes the difficulty and type of structures. It can even be played alone to set records of highest tower or most pieces. It is incredibly versatile.
