small / fast / low power electro-mechanical actuators

Question

small / fast / low power electro-mechanical actuators

opticsman (Industrial)

(OP)

17 Oct 03 17:43

Hi All, I am looking for suggestions for an actuator to drive a small pin ( part of a fast release mechanism ) but not sure what the best device would be. The pin would be small <1mm diameter and the forces involved would be less than 10 grammes or so. The devices I have thought of are small solenoids or relays or electromagnet type but as this is not my normal field I don't know if there might be anything better to use. Response time would need to be <0.1 seconds and actuator size should be less than 10X10X10 mm ,any shape but same volume. The actuator is normally off and would not be triggered often. Thanks. Opticsman.

danrocxl5 (Electrical) · Answer 1 · 2003-10-21 08:58:16

What about using Nitinol wiring (memory shape metal). It is a metal available as different diameter. By passing an electric current thru it it takes back a previously applicated shape. It is available on the market throug science store, online boutiques, home robotic suppliers and others. There is even piston like mecanism available. I have even seen it used in a disk drive ejection mecanism.

israelkk (Aerospace) · Answer 2 · 2003-10-24 05:54:56

danrocxl5, The problem with Nitinol is the response time. When it is heated fast enough (large current) it can have <0.1 sec but the return will be much longer because the cooling process.

opticsman, A solenoid may do the job, but I suspect you will need to order a custom made one. More info is needed:

1. how much travel the pin does?
2. What is the maximum current you can use in the solenoid?
3. How fast it should be?
4. Are there side forces on the pin? Is this force felt by the solenoid?

This is very important input needed before a solenoid solution can be checked to see if it can do the job.

ROcosmin (Electrical) · Answer 3 · 2003-10-24 07:01:56

had you tought about using a voice coil actuator.
Very good response time, could be very small, and if it is incorporating NeFeB magnets must be also very low power compsuming...

rtokong (Materials) · Answer 4 · 2003-12-05 15:53:23

rtokong ( materials)

opticsman , do you really need all the problems associated with electromech. or electromag. ? You may find all your answers in a piezo actuator ( very low power ,very small ,extremely accurate movement ,very reliable, and very inexpensive ). I have a number of resources for off the shelf supplies or information. I can be reached at clong@greop.com if interested .good luck

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small / fast / low power electro-mechanical actuators