Linear Actuator alternative

Hi,

I'm looking for an alternative component for a linear actuator with feedback, with a duty cycle of 100% (so a motor that doesn't need to 'rest'.

Should I consider using a hollow shaft stepper motor with a ballscrew or are there other products more convenient?

Thanks in advance.

Lars.

I have a similar need and all my research has me going with a ball screw and stepper motor with encoder. I don’t understand how to work a linear encoder though and if a linear encoder could be used you might not need the stepper and ball screw setup

Keeping the leadscrew separate from the motor will give many more options (standard linear
actuators have the motor to the side to reduce the overall length).

A motor riding on a stationary leadscrew is compact of course - is this a requirement? Standard
CNC config is motor inline driving the leadscrew.

Why do you specify a ballscew? What requirements do you have?

Ripcrow:
I have a similar need and all my research has me going with a ball screw and stepper motor with encoder. I don’t understand how to work a linear encoder though and if a linear encoder could be used you might not need the stepper and ball screw setup

I also don't understand the working of a linear encoder, but working with a arduino and easydriver ic and nema17 stepper motor and ballscrew or belt will do the trick. I think I'll go that route.

MarkT:
Keeping the leadscrew separate from the motor will give many more options (standard linear
actuators have the motor to the side to reduce the overall length).

A motor riding on a stationary leadscrew is compact of course - is this a requirement? Standard
CNC config is motor inline driving the leadscrew.

Why do you specify a ballscew? What requirements do you have?

My requirements are:
duty cycle of 100%
low force; (<100 grams of mass will be moved)
easy configuration; (for example an IC+arduino)
Compact design; (like single belt driven rails)
Travel distance; somewhere between 20 and 30 centimeters

I've seen a belt driven linear rail product that looks promising but it's a little expensive.

Might be important to know what the expected life-time is for your device with 100% duty cycle.

Paul

The stepper motor with belt will be used in an art installation for an exhibition which will be on display for two weeks). It won't be on all the time, only during opening hours. When turned on, the stepper will move to a zero point (home) which will be defined in the code through using a microswitch. The stepper will drive a belt which moves the load which is below 100 grams when a button is held, either up or down.

I plan on using a EasyDriver IC, Arduino nano, micro switches (to define home and end point) and a 12v power supply (3,2amps).

LarsHuisman:
The stepper motor with belt will be used in an art installation for an exhibition which will be on display for two weeks). It won't be on all the time, only during opening hours. When turned on, the stepper will move to a zero point (home) which will be defined in the code through using a microswitch. The stepper will drive a belt which moves the load which is below 100 grams when a button is held, either up or down.

I plan on using a EasyDriver IC, Arduino nano, micro switches (to define home and end point) and a 12v power supply (3,2amps).

Then you should be all set. Two weeks is NO time for such an installation.

Paul

Paul_KD7HB:
Then you should be all set. Two weeks is NO time for such an installation.

Paul

Right on. Thank you all for replying to this topic and helping me out!