Micro linear actuators with simple controls

The LS family of miniature linear actuators from Actuonix Motion Devices, Surrey, Canada (www.actuonix.com), features built-in limit switching that turns them off when they reach maximum extension or load. Control is through positive or negative dc voltage, with reversing polarity changing actuator direction. The LS-6 and LS-9 units use plastic or steel housings, and measure 65 and 93 mm, respectively. The LS-6 has a rated force of 4 N, can move at 5 mm/sec at peak power, and has a maximum speed of 8 mm/sec at 2 N. The LS-9's rated force is 7.2 N, it travels at 5 mm/sec at peak power, and has max speed of 8 mm/sec at 3 N. Input voltage for both is 3 Vdc, with the LS-6 drawing 210 mA and the LS-9 drawing 360 mA.