Need a small remotely controlled motor w/ self-contained power

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the construction of a device featuring beams that can grow and shrink by 300%, controlled by small, battery-powered motors. Participants explore various motor types, actuation methods, and control mechanisms suitable for this application, considering the constraints of remote operation and the need for compactness.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks a small, battery-powered motor that can be remotely actuated to control beam lengths.
  • Another participant suggests that a solenoid might be more appropriate than a motor for the intended application.
  • A different participant proposes using a small RC car as a base for converting rotational motion to linear motion, possibly through a screw drive.
  • Some participants discuss the feasibility of using multiple RC cars, expressing concerns about the practicality of controlling 32 motors.
  • One participant recommends looking into car antennas that extend in sections, suggesting they may have useful mechanisms for the project.
  • Another participant mentions the multi-element extension ladder technique as a potential method for achieving the desired motion.
  • There is a correction regarding the operation of retracting car antennas, clarifying that they use a flexible plastic rod and a spool mechanism powered by a motor.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the type of actuator to use, with some favoring motors and others suggesting solenoids. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to achieve the desired beam extension and actuation method.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not reached a consensus on the specific motor or actuation method, and there are concerns about the feasibility of controlling multiple motors simultaneously. The discussion includes various assumptions about the mechanisms involved.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for hobbyists or engineers interested in remote-controlled mechanisms, particularly those exploring innovative actuation methods for expandable structures.

DaveC426913
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I wish to construct a device comprised of beams that grow and shrink by as much as 300%. The beam lengths will be controlled by motors in a specific timing and sequence.

I cannot supply power or control to the motors from an external source because the object will turn itself inside out, rendering any umbilicals impossible.

I want a motor that is
- small
- battery-powered
- can be actuated remotely by a computer (via radio receiver I guess)
- can have its motion converted to a piston

Any ideas? Looking for suggestions for:
- the right motor
- how the motor will be powered (batteries will suffice)
- the way the motor will actuate the beam pistons
- a transmitter from the computer to control 32 of these motors
- the right receiver that receives the signal and activates the motor

Oh. And a "weekend hobby" budget. :biggrin:


An example of growing/shrinking beams can be seen here:
MegaSphere.jpg
 
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DaveC426913 said:
can have its motion converted to a piston
Are you sure you want a motor? Sounds like you might actually want a solenoid.
 
I'd start with a small RC car, and look at ways to convert the rotational motion to linear motion. Some sort of screw drive would probably be the strongest...
 
zoobyshoe said:
Are you sure you want a motor? Sounds like you might actually want a solenoid.

Yeah except it will need to extend by 300%. Like from one foot to 3 feet.
 
berkeman said:
I'd start with a small RC car, and look at ways to convert the rotational motion to linear motion. Some sort of screw drive would probably be the strongest...

Yeah. 32 RC cars...

Perhaps this project is unfeasible.
 
Maybe look at car antennas that extend in multiple sections. They must have some interesting interlocking screw drive sections or something similar...
 
berkeman said:
Maybe look at car antennas that extend in multiple sections. They must have some interesting interlocking screw drive sections or something similar...
Ooh. now that one's a great idea! Thanks!
 
berkeman said:
Maybe look at car antennas that extend in multiple sections. They must have some interesting interlocking screw drive sections or something similar...
That's not how retracting car antennas work. The antenna has a flexible plastic rod inside of it that extends or retracts by winding or unwinding from a spool powered by a motor.
 
  • #10
Dr_Morbius said:
That's not how retracting car antennas work. The antenna has a flexible plastic rod inside of it that extends or retracts by winding or unwinding from a spool powered by a motor.

The fact remains, it is the perfect tool for the job I need.
 
  • #11
Dr_Morbius said:
That's not how retracting car antennas work. The antenna has a flexible plastic rod inside of it that extends or retracts by winding or unwinding from a spool powered by a motor.

That's a clever mechanism. I did not know that.
 

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