I'm interested in integrating a hidden "drop down" compartment as part of a home automation project, i.e. using linear actuators to drop a platform of around 0.5kg by 100mm.
It's only a gimmicky project that I don't want to spend much building, so purchasing a standard linear actuator seems like overkill.
This got me wondering what alternatives there may be for small loads like this. Stepper/belt combos could work, but for such a small load I'm sure there is an easier way. I spotted these N20 motors with a small gearbox on AliExpress:
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/M4-...terminals-100MM-thread-shaft/32846788887.html
They come with a 100mm shaft, so I could buy a pair of these and build a platform using enclosed M4 nuts, perhaps also adding guide rods if required (although for this application I think it may be ok without). Add a couple of endstop microswitches and it's done .
Have you spotted any products that may be better suited, or have you got a better idea for something that may work? I considered using a rack and pinion style mechanism on a 9g servo, but I think that may rattle and be too noisy.
It's only a gimmicky project that I don't want to spend much building, so purchasing a standard linear actuator seems like overkill.
This got me wondering what alternatives there may be for small loads like this. Stepper/belt combos could work, but for such a small load I'm sure there is an easier way. I spotted these N20 motors with a small gearbox on AliExpress:
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/M4-...terminals-100MM-thread-shaft/32846788887.html
They come with a 100mm shaft, so I could buy a pair of these and build a platform using enclosed M4 nuts, perhaps also adding guide rods if required (although for this application I think it may be ok without). Add a couple of endstop microswitches and it's done .
Have you spotted any products that may be better suited, or have you got a better idea for something that may work? I considered using a rack and pinion style mechanism on a 9g servo, but I think that may rattle and be too noisy.