Control circuit update:
We now have one of our prototypes working with servo control. It uses a reflective infrared photo interrupter and an ATTiny25 to count lead screw revolutions, and can be controlled just like any normal rotational servo motor with PWM. Because the revolution count is only accurate to 1 revolution and we are using a 6-32 thread, the linear actuator has a 1/32 inch positioning resolution.
Would this be considered precision control and good ease of use (electrically)?codlink:
What I would look for is precision control and ease of use.
I considered using a hall effect sensor, but I was worried that the output from a hall sensor would vary too much over the length of travel - that is to say, there would be a very strong reading at one end of travel and a very weak reading at the other end and would be non-linear in between.codlink:
like hall sensors to keep track of motion or even magnetic
As for mechanical ease of use, is there any diameter hole that would be most useful for mounting? maybe just a small hole, as it would be easy to drill it out to a larger diameter?