Hi, What kind of load can the V-slot rails and motors support? I'm hoping to build an adjustable-height desk with (maybe) linear actuator legs, controlled by a Raspberry Pi (or Arduino, whatever). I'm thinking of a rack-and pinion design for the legs (perhaps secured after adjustment by solenoid-actuated pin locks). I've looked into using satellite actuator arms but I'd like something a little quieter, faster, and more elegant looking. The V-slot setup looks ideal. Am I barking up the wrong tree? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, NJ Newbie
The motors all have their own rating that will tell you the max load. For your application I would recommend threaded rod to lift the table vertically rather than belts. Rack and pinion is too expensive. The rails can be doubled up and should be able to support a table. Unless you have collapsible legs, there will be legs sticking out the top of the table when you let it down. Another option is to use pulleys and a hand-crank Also I'm not sure the precision of v-slot is really needed for a table unless you're trying to get it exactly level or do precise positioning.
@The Dude : thanks for your quick reply! I'll look into the threaded rod supports to lift the table. You're right, I don't need the precision of the V-Slots. Thanks again, NJ Newbie (Aron G.)
@Aron Gahagan This is going to be a great build. I have been looking into making one for the shop here @ OpenBuilds. I will wait to build one of yours Thanks
Collapsible legs are possible with lead screws and tube within a tube. This will allow everything to be collapsible. The owner of my company is trying to make everyone stand up at there desk, he had us raise his desk and has been bugging engineering to make a desk top that pulls up and forward... Good luck and if you need a rough sketch of how we did it let me know.
My father has had his own business for 30 some odd years as a furniture repair tech for various furniture manufacturers, so growing up in his garage over the years I have seen so many furniture parts laying around. The actuators in recliners and other chair models are rated for 200+ lbs and may give you some inspiration. Let me know if you want any more pictures of them disassembled, there are so many of them laying around here I have scraped a few for various parts.
Yes, I'd love a rough sketch -- I'm working on the Software aspect of things now, and am still trying to nail down the hardware side. Any and all advice/ideas are welcome! Thanks!
Thanks for the suggestion @ThinkerTinker ! I'm thinking about using some inexpensive (cable) satellite actuator arms housed in nested wood frames...just not sure if the motors are steppers. I'd like to control the speed (with force sensitive resistors).
Maybe look around for a sit-stand desk mechanism, the rage of all offices these days. There has to be used ones at office surplus stores.
