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Now that you've finished the build, test what it does. Explore your build and then answer these questions in your engineering notebook.

How would the range of the claw change if the two 3x4 Tee Beams used in Step 42 of building the arm were replaced with one 1x4 Beam?Step 42 of the build instructions showing two 3x4 Tee beams connected end to end to create an I shape.

  • For help with this question, observe how far the claw can open with the two Tee Beams.
    • Do you think the claw will open more or less with the 1x4 Beam?
    • Be sure to justify your answer with data from your observation.

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Answers should indicate that the claw will be able to open wider with a 1x4 Beam. The two Tee Beams limit the claw's range of motion but students might not know the term range of motion yet. That is okay.

Help students to recognize that the change in parts allowing the claw to open wider does not necessarily mean that it is a better build design. Widening the claw can have other consequences like potentially causing other components damage or causing the claw to become stuck when maneuvering around obstacles.

In regard to the standard Clawbot IQ build, the Tee Beams also add to the structure that holds the Color Sensor. The position to mount the Color Sensor becomes more difficult without the Tee Beams.