Large (12V) linear actuator control using Arduino Uno

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1

I want to control the distance traveled by a large linear actuator.
I have a 12V linear actuator with potentiometer feedback- servocity.com/html/115_lbs_ … RwNCfnF__g
I am using an Arduino Uno with a motor shield to control the actuator. I currently have a Adafruit MotorShield V2 and am aware that this will not be able to directly drive the linear actuator (due to amperage constraints).

I am considering purchasing a more robust (in terms of amperage limitations) motor shield from pololu.com (thinking of the Dual VNH5019 Motor Driver Shield)

My end goal is to make the linear actuator extend 2" (end of the stroke) and stop for 30 seconds, then retract 1" and stop for 30 seconds, then retract another 1" to end back at the initial position. After I get one down, I plan on having a second linear actuator doing the same thing. These actuators will have to be moving in unison.

I want to know what motor shield to buy (what’s most commonly used preferably), how I should wire the actuator, how I incorporate the motor power source, what type of code I should use/look into.

I’m pretty clueless when it comes to Arduino and electronic projects, so any help is greatly appreciated! Please let me know if there’s anything I can clarify.

Thanks!

2

The LAC seems to be a great choice: robotshop.com/en/firgelli-te … board.html
It can provide up to 4A at 10% duty cycle. This allows you to control the actuator like you would a normal servo motor, which can be easily done using an Arduino and the now-included servo library.
You would only need a power supply. In terms of a shield (if you still wanted to go that route), you’d need one which could provide 3.8A and had an analog input pin free so you can connect the potentiometer.