Linear actuator + external potentiometer control

Other Hardware Motors, Mechanics, Power and CNC
1

Hi there! relatively new to Arduino although I have used it previously.

I have a 6V linear actuator, with no feedback. This is the product: (https://robu.in/product/la-t8-100-stroke-length-100mm-150mm-s-6-4n-dc6v-electric-putter-electric-linear-actuator-putter-for-doors-windows/)

Works fine between max and min values. However, I now want to introduce position control. I have considered 2 options.

  1. Buy an actuator with inbuilt feedback. Pros: Easy, Cons: Expensive.

  2. Buy a rotary/linear potentiometer and use that as a replacement for the inbuilt feedback. I understand that the control, in this case, is manual, which is not an issue. Pros: Much cheaper, Cons: I don't know if that's possible (https://robu.in/product/10k-sliding-adjustable-linear-potentiometer/).
    That's where I need help. How do I use this device to control position of my linear actuator manually?

Extra: I also have a servo tester. I don't know if this works on the same principle as the potentiometer. Can it be used instead?

2

Welcome to the Arduino forum. What is the project you are going to use the actuator in? There is most likely some place in your project that you can add a potentiometer to give you feedback. Feedback does not have to be part of the actuator.

3

I have a tray that needs to slide horizontally and stop at specific distances.

4

If the stopping places are always in the same places, then a microswitch or IR sensor or similar may be placed at each stop. How many stops are needed?
If the movement distance is not very large, a linear potentiometer could be incorporated in your project.

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