Society of Robots - Robot Forum
Mechanics and Construction => Mechanics and Construction => Topic started by: Mr.M on March 12, 2013, 12:33:02 PM
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So I need some sort of actuator to provide a straight linear motion. What first came to mind was using a solenoid but from what I take on them is that they are more of a rapid back and forth motion with no control on how far it extends, where as I need a slow and smooth actuator where I can control the distance. Am I wrong on how solenoids work? Is there a better option? This may be simple to others but for some reason I'm stumped. Thanks.
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well did you try googling linear actuators :P
This was one of the first hits: http://www.servocity.com/html/12v_linear_actuators.html (http://www.servocity.com/html/12v_linear_actuators.html)
Im sure there are cheaper on Ebay and just looking around.
If your looking for something tiny, cd players, cd-dvd drives have a small actuator that moves the laser back and forth for reading the disc.
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So I need some sort of actuator to provide a straight linear motion. [...] I need a slow and smooth actuator where I can control the distance.
Have You considered leadscrew (https://www.google.co.uk/#hl=en&sclient=psy-ab&q=leadscrew&oq=leadscrew&gs_l=hp.3..0i7j0i10j0i7l2.3860.3860.2.4113.1.1.0.0.0.0.77.77.1.1.0.les%3B..0.0...1c..5.psy-ab.dEAG6kbRCDE&pbx=1&bav=on.2,or.r_cp.r_qf.&bvm=bv.43287494,d.d2k&fp=9a228460ab5339ff&biw=1280&bih=856)? It can be easily made DIY style using threaded rod and a nut. Simply make motor spin threaded rod and see nut moving up and down the thread.
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Sure you need a Threaded Rod Stepper Motor with Acme Leadscrew.
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A "voice coil" might be an option. It's basically a solenoid with position control.
A higher-torque option is stepper motor (or gear motor) with a lead screw and drive nut or bearing. Perhaps coupled with an encoder of some sort. That's how most linear actuators you can buy are built.