How to make linear actuator matrix display?

hi,

i make linear actuator matrix make animated pinhead 3d display. need tons of small pwm controlled linear actuators specify exact location of each pin. thinking of building many small coils using gauge 30 magnet wire , control pins inside pwm signals have concerns precision, power consumption , heating of approach , if coils next each other influence each others. thought of using servos expensive, noisy , take lots of space. ideas might way implement linear actuator matrix such project?

thanks, jarkko

quote from: jarkkol on jun 23, 2013, 03:50 pm

any ideas might way implement linear actuator matrix such project?

here's how implement - it's going expensive, no matter how @ (even idea expensive in terms of overall time, if not money).

• for every pin, use micro-servo can rotate @ least (or close to) 180 degrees.


• attach output shaft of micro-servo grooved wheel or pulley circumference equal 2x distance want pins able move.


• on each pulley, attach length of large-gauge fishing line (or small steel cable, or other stiff-but-thin line) outer edge of pulley @ 1 point, such when pulley moves, can pull in or push out line.


• route line using stiff thin-walled plastic tubing (made of nylon or similar material - lubricated thin-wall steel tubing work) each pin.

the servos need mounted on board away pin-sculpture, bends in tubing need gradual (not sharp) allow smooth movement , prevent binding.

to gain better understanding of how , work, check out how cables connect bicycle hand-brakes worked , routed, how cables automobile's accelerator pedal routed , control air-flow mechanisms in carburetor or intake of engine.

i'm not sure can describe better have; should suffice you're going have extreme mess on hands, no matter how decide implement it, because of sheer number of components involved. way around mess (well, lessening extend) scale size of "pin board" larger, mount servos (or other mechanisms) behind board , still have enough room work. other option purchase or manufacture custom linear-motion mechanisms (with position feedback) in quantity needed resolution of display. either option either cost ton of money (have priced miniature linear actuators position feedback lately?), or ton of money , ton of time , engineering expertise.

i guess ultimately, depend on budget, experience, space installation, , patience...

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