Which Actuator?

Hi,

I have a problem. I have no idea what actuator to use. I cant even find a suitable website to buy off. If possible, I need one that is self contained with batteries. I have looked before anyone accuses me off not researching so any of you who were about to accuse me, go on to my profile and look at my motto.

Thanks,

Alex R

Is there a reason you need one thats self contained with batteries?

Its easier I suppose, for a first time builder. I am however prepared to get one that isnt self contained, if need be.

Thanks,

Alex

alex it would actually be far easier to have a unit that is not self contained.

Its easier to use a single battery pack for everything in a machine as you require a removeable link for every seperate power source in your robot. These have to be positioned together which can make your life more tricky.

I suggest looking on ebay for an actuator or failing that look for companies that specialise in them based in the UK. If they dont have shopping carts etc then send them an email and maybe even ask for sponsorship (you would be amazed what you can get for free).

As an aside, your post comes across as very aggressive along with your motto on your profile. If you take a friendlier approach people will be more willing to help you out.

erm.....Sorry. it was meant as a joke but Ill change it:blush:.

Alex

no worries mate.

One thing I have learned after a few years on this forum is to always think two or three times about what you write! :)

Dont I know it!

Alex

No-one has really posted any actuators on this page. Sorry to bump this thread but I am getting desperate. Please help.

Alex

no idea if rob still sells them but

http://www.robotstuff.freehomepage.com/catalog.htmlhttp://www.robotstuff.freehomepage.com/catalog.html

if you can still get them for 18 quid for one then you will doing good as you will looking to pay 150 quid easily for one. I would drop him an email and ask.

What might help people post is to post what specification you are looking for. Ie the travel of the linear actuator, the weight, the force you are looking for etc.

You can easily make your own actuator using a drill motor and a car jack. Weighs a fair bit but it will work nicely. Or you can make one using a threaded rod and nut. This is what ploughbot does along with a couple of others.

I will see if i can find pics on the net later.

Thanks Gary, I owe you yet another one.
I was looking for about 40-60kg of lift, about a 10-15cm extension, and as fast as possible i.e 40mm/s as a minimum. If possible, I would also like it to be quite a low voltage, so that it is cheaper to over-volt.

Thanks again Gary,

Alex

found these guys in the US. Not bad pricing for what you are after but I am not sure what the postage and possible customs charges might be.

http://firgelliauto.co.uk/default.php?cPath=74http://firgelliauto.co.uk/default.php?cPath=74

Or I just found that maplin do an actuator.

http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=100900&doy=6m11&C=SO&U=strat1 5http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?...C=SO&U=strat15

Might be your best bet as it is only 15 quid but it is twice the size you are after. You would have to contact them to find out about voltage as well.

And no worries, I have been there looking for parts for ever when someone else knew where to get them immediately.

Cheers for that.:proud:. I think that the maplin actuator will be suitable. I might be able to talk to Mario about the size of it. I think Ill PM him.

Thanks,

Alex

Customs charges depends on what they write on the box. RobotMarket Place write toy robot parts on the box - 0% VAT - whereas Dimension Engineering write electronic components - 17.5% VAT. Both are probably right but you needs to be careful as YOU are responsible for making sure the information is correct and YOU can get into trouble if some customs officer thinks its misleading.

Andy

Meh? O.K but Im not planning to buy from the U.S. Thanks for the advice but I do plan to get the stuff from England as it cuts down on cost.

Alex

Check the specs ...Alex R

as fast as possible i.e 40mm/s as a minimum
Maplins Spec €Speed(Full load): 4.2 mm/s

Sorry to double post but if I buy one of these:
http://firgelliauto.co.uk/product_info.php?cPath=84&products_id=73http://firgelliauto.co.uk/product_in...products_id=73
and double the voltage, will I get double the lifting capacity? In my opinion 40kg of thrust is enough (itll lift two robots plus the arm) and it is pretty quick.

Thanks,

alex

Doesnt appear to be a voltage value listed for the Maplin one either. My guess would be that those specifications are for 24V so it would cost you more to overvolt that.

For actuators I think your best bet is to monitor eBay every couple of weeks - sometimes theres sod all on there (like just now, Ive just checked) but sometimes there are two or three actuators suitable for featherweights

doubling the voltage will times the force by 4 so

20x4=80kg

Alexs

doubling the voltage will times the force by 4 so...you run the risk of exceeding the design limits and breaking it:)

In my opinion 40kg of thrust is enough (itll lift two robots plus the arm) and it is pretty quick... that depends on your actuator extension to arm tip lift gear ratio.

The ZYJ(s)01 High Speed actuator @ 24v might suit your needs.
http://www.firgelliauto.com/COMPACT%20ACTUATOR%20SPEC%20Jue%2005.pdfhttp://www.firgelliauto.com/COMPACT%...20Jue%2005.pdf

Woody

Thanks Woody. That is perfect.

Alex