Electric Retracts - Modifying existing Air/Servo-operated Retracts
Well, after having given up on Lado... ([link]http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_8425919/anchors_8425919/mpage_1/key_/anchor/tm.htm#8425919[/link]) ,the DIY guy that I am... I designed my own DIY version last night...
Here's a vid of the first prototype.... used a miniature 50:1 gear motor attached to a pc. of 4-40 threaded rod that pushes/pulls the existing mechanism of an older (Hobbico?) servo-operated retract mechanism. My next project will be retrofit actuators for my Robart 630 retracts (easier actually)... but still awaiting a few custom couplers my Dad is machining for me... Next task is to design the controlling electronics (will use a 8-pin PIC interfaced to an H-bridge with current sensing circuitry to sense end positions... no limit switches needed). Might soon be looking for a CNC manufacturer! [8D]
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1-hInYnsw0[/youtube]