Linear Actuator 2kg

DC-powered linear motion for rapid extension/retraction of short distances. Suitable for thousands of applications such as grippers, lever-pressing, insertion, or indexing mechanical items.

We designed a simple 3D Bracket (shown in green) that attaches the actuator to an extrusion (20x20mm). The actuator is characterized as follows:

Max force: 2kg-f
Power: 50watts
Current: +/- 4.5 Amps
Voltage: 12V dc (or -12v dc)
Reverse voltage: -12v DC
Backdriveable (you can push or pull using a spring)
Stroke: 20mm nominal (17mm measured)
Communication: none – directly power it by DC

Engineering integration:

Operating voltage: 12v is nominal, but you can reduce voltage (probably down to 6v) if you wish to have it move slowly or reduce force. You can attempt to raise the voltage higher than 12v if you need a bit more force or speed – these units are pretty robust and designed for vehicles, which frequently reach 13.5v.

Stroke of 17mm can be adjusted by mechanically constrain it (as we did in the SprayMaster device) and it will not damage the unit. However, make sure you don’t continue to send voltage continuously as you may burn out the motor. These units are originally for locking doors in cars – with one impulse they perform their task. Extend the stroke by adding a lever, but remember 2x distance means 1/2 force.

Backdrivability is a big asset. Consider integrating this into a compliant assembly which returns it to the neutral position. If you do this, then you can eliminate the circuitry and the software needed to send a reverse signal.

Speed with no-load: – it moves fast enough to punch a fly (given 12v pulse). Extends the rod in a fraction of a second – just like the sound you hear when you lock the door of your car.

Power delivery: use a solid state relay (SSR), a common mechanical relay (with a fun clicky sound), or a single-channel H-bridge (you can even use the standard SCUTTLE motor driver).