Mechanism to move things around

[Ananthan9470]

Hi. I am working on a project that requires moving a small camera on a platform in a linear fashion. I have a rectangular board and this camera need to move from one end to the other controlled by an arduino or something similar. I don't even know how to begin to approach this problem. I am thinking of something like a rail that can be controlled by a micro controller. Can someone please give me some pointers? Thanks!

 

[billy_joule]

Some search terms that will find lots of relevant results:

linear motor
actuator
rack and pinion
slider crank
power screw
servo

Then add arduino to the search term for more specific examples & instructions.

Once you know what you need (speed, power, accuracy, range etc) and have specific questions we can help further.
Maybe something very simple like a regular rotary servo, a bit of string and a rubber band would work. Without knowing your specs it's impossible to give advice

 

[CWatters]

If you don't need great accuracy perhaps take a look at a sail winch used for model boats. The interface to the arduino should be simple.