Feasibility of Can Lifting Mechanism using Arduino

Projects General Guidance
1

Hi,

First post. Excited to be part of the community.

Goal: Build a mechanism that can hide 2 cans of coke under ground and lift them up when a switch is clicked.

Problem: I need to find a vertical lifting mechanism that can lift 2 full cans (~0.5kg) up around 20cm. It cannot be done by pulling up, it has to be done by raising from below, since the device is fully under ground. I have been looking into stepping motors with screws attached to them, which could work (Possible solution).

Question: Which solutions are out there to do vertical lifting of ~0.5kg from below?

Please dumb it down, I would appreciate it.

Thanks

2

A linear actuator can certainly do what you want. Add a couple of limit switches to stop the travel at the end points. Certainly no need to bring an Arduino into the picture.

The problem not mentioned is the rail system to guide the platform in it's movement.

Paul

3

Thank you Paul.

A few follow up questions:

  1. What shop(s) is usually preferred when buying linear actuators (or any hardware in general for projects like these), besides Amazon?

  2. Is there a rule I should know in terms of how many kg's a linear actuator can push? I'm assuming it depends on the actuator itself.

  3. Yes, good point on railing system. Any suggestions on where to find inspiration?

Thank you,

4

BobZeBuilder:
Thank you Paul.

A few follow up questions:

  1. What shop(s) is usually preferred when buying linear actuators (or any hardware in general for projects like these), besides Amazon?

That works, or Ebay

  1. Is there a rule I should know in terms of how many kg's a linear actuator can push? I'm assuming it depends on the actuator itself.

You already know the weight of the load, When you get the mechanism designed, you can add that weight.

  1. Yes, good point on railing system. Any suggestions on where to find inspiration?

An elevator?

Thank you,