Hi,
I’m building a coffee table with an automated elevating section which houses a video projector. So a 10 inch x 10 inch section of the table will need to be elevated 4 inches from its normal position. I’m very new to automation and need advice. I was looking at using a linear actuator, but the table only has 5 inches in the top to conceal the elevating apparatus. So now, looking at all the options on this site, I’m completely overwhelmed. Should I get a programmable servo motor? Are there track actuators that can work? Is there something else I should consider? The table will be elevated straight up.
Please help.
Thanks,
Brian
Normally a linear actuator is best in this situation, though it’s important to note that most linear actuators, when fully retracted, measure the stroke length + a fixed length. For example, if the DC motor, gearing etc. is 3", the retracted length of a 4" actuator would be 7". Given your space restrictions, you might devise a pulley system similar to that of a forklift. Unfortunately we don’t have many such products, so you’ll need to browse our catalog to see if anything applies.
A servo motor simply rotates, so if you can devise a mechanism which translates rotational motion to linear motion (many different ways, but up to you to select which is best for your needs).
