How about using two limit type switches at each end of the travel to indicate position?
The first would slow the mechanism near each end (say 3-6 inches) and the second would stop it at the end.

Absolutely, I agree as long as we don't want to know the position at any given time. I like a simple industrial garage door opener system with a few limit switches.

Ron

 

Absolutely, I agree as long as we don't want to know the position at any given time. I like a simple industrial garage door opener system with a few limit switches.

Ron

What I do, when my machines are too big and dangerous, is I place three limit switches on each side. The first two usually of the "logic" type (such as inductive sensors). One for deceleration, and one for full stop.

The third switch is ussually mechanical, and I hardwire it to the actuator itself, so as to fully stop all motion if a sensor or control failure occurred.

 

The third switch is ussually mechanical, and I hardwire it to the actuator itself, so as to fully stop all motion if a sensor or control failure occurred.

Also it's preferable that the mechanical switch be wired normally closed (open upon reaching limit), so that any open type connection failure will also stop the motion.

 

Here is a controller .... still requires a suitable motor, and appropriate gearing ...
http://www.galilmc.com/motion-controllers/single-axis/dmc-3x01x

... looking at costs ... a little on the high side though.