Hi All,
Would like to find as low power a linear actuator as possible. I'm using the Ferghelli L12, which is generally excellent, but would prefer something with a very minimal power draw.
Also, I only need a travel distance of 2 cm maximum. The forces involved are miniscule: a simple flexing of a thin membrane. Rapid travel time is prefered.
Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

 

Tons of solenoids/voice coil actuators that would fit the bill..
http://www.beikimco.com/motor-products/VCA-linear-voice-coil-actuator-all


Not sure what you classify as a minimal power draw.

 

Tons of solenoids/voice coil actuators that would fit the bill..
http://www.beikimco.com/motor-products/VCA-linear-voice-coil-actuator-all


Not sure what you classify as a minimal power draw.

Nice, thanks. Obviously, I was too focused on more elaborate, powerful mechanisms.
Since I only want to flex a sub-millimeter thick membrane of very light composition a distance of <2.5 cm in one second or less, I would hope to have a total power draw in the <50 milliwatt rang, with the understanding that power usage in a solenoid is highly nonlinear over time. The solenoid itself would not be required to be on when the membrane in position in the open or closed position.

 

Have you considered a standard, or even miniature, servo, as used by modellers? These hold position with negligible power consumption when stationary and likely have more than enough torque for your purpose.

 

Have you considered a standard, or even miniature, servo, as used by modellers? These hold position with negligible power consumption when stationary and likely have more than enough torque for your purpose.

I will research, thanks.

 

Have you considered a standard, or even miniature, servo, as used by modellers? These hold position with negligible power consumption when stationary and likely have more than enough torque for your purpose.

If he _has_ to have linear motion maybe this would work:
http://www.spektrumrc.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=SPMSH2040L

The tradeoff is that it only has 13.5mm of stroke.

 

If he _has_ to have linear motion maybe this would work:
http://www.spektrumrc.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=SPMSH2040L

The tradeoff is that it only has 13.5mm of stroke.

Darn, that looks sexy. If anyone knows if something like this this with longer throw, pls let me know. I could resort to some sort of angled/hinged setup, if necessary.

 

Servo plus rack and pinion is a valid option.

 

Darn, that looks sexy. If anyone knows if something like this this with longer throw, pls let me know. I could resort to some sort of angled/hinged setup, if necessary.

Servo plus rack and pinion is a valid option.

I agree with @atferrari. If you are going to do mechanical additions to a hobby servo then I don't see much advantage to using one with linear motion.

 

Simple rotational to linear. Two concentric brass tubes with slot down larger with tab brazed on smaller.
would also work with the little sexy linear. Speed - about .06 sec. Servo, analog or digital. Analog control could be with a 555.