I'm thinking about putting together a keyboard/mouse shelf that can be lifted vertically using a linear actuator. I was looking at the C-beam kit (C-BeamĀ® Double Wide Gantry Actuator Bundle), but I need higher speeds. Ideally, I would want it to travel 50-70 cm in about 1 second. Could I use a different lead screw to achieve this? How fast is it realistic to go with a lead screw setup?
Realistically - about 1/2 that - the top speed on my leadscrew machine is 2500 mm/minute. And then you have to allow for acceleration and deceleration. You can get higher speeds and acceleration with belt drive, but another factor you will have to bear in mind is that stepper motors only hold their position if power is applied - you will need a mechanism to lock the shelf in place. Good luck, Alex.