Thanks for your advice
To answer your questions
The robotic toy shown in the second link was actually my inspriation for this method.
The mechanisms used however isnt easy to convert to a 4 claw.
Im willing to spend several weeks working on it- (Trying to get it done by Sept 1st)
Ive been reading some books on this - and have worked on diagrams for the last 2 years off and on.
The opperating mechanism is based on the bolt action gun lever system
I would be using two button/triggers that would be located on one side of the staff half way up the shaft.
Directly on the opposite side I will have a small lever that would move it into postion.
THe relaxed postion would be the weapon in closed position.
Im including a diagram of this part.
1- would be when its partially opem
2- wide open
Also I had talked to a techinican at Radio Shack and aquired the batter pack, switch and light bulb, wire for the electrical part. The battery pack will be concealed in the blunt part of the staff.
- I had planned to use PVC piping as the outer part of the staff.
and currently am trying to find a good material for the internal lever/piston
Hope this gives u a clearer picture....