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getting my "V-Slot™ Linear Actuator Build" to move

Discussion in 'General Talk' started by RichB1, May 27, 2018.

  1. RichB1

    RichB1 New
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    this is a really, really beginner question, but I can't see where to get started. I want to buy the
    V-Slot™ Linear Actuator Build (Belt Driven),
    and just have it move all the way from one end to the other end, stopping at each end until a button is pushed, or a switch is turned. I can buy the stepper motor with the v-slot kit, but don't know what electronics I need for these simple (?) moves. I'm hoping to just have it run from a battery and do the following:
    1. Push the button, the mounting platform moves all the way to the end (hits a limit switch?) and stops.
    2. Push another button, and it moves all the way to the other end, and stops.
    Sounds dead simple I know, but I don't know what to get and how to do it. Any help definitely appreciated!
     
  2. Rick 2.0

    Rick 2.0 OpenBuilds Team
    Staff Member Moderator Builder Resident Builder

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    Simplest way is probably an Arduino + a stepper driver. You can find out more by either perusing the camera slider section of the forum or by trying a google search with something like "controlling a stepper motor with an Arduino"
     
    RichB1 likes this.
  3. RichB1

    RichB1 New
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    thank you rick 2.0. Here is a question: it looks like I have to use a computer to set up the program for my arduino, but then after that will it function just with the push buttons, the arduino, and the stepper driver? Or do I need to always have the computer hooked up to it? I'm trying to end up with a simple project that just goes back and forth with the push of a button. Programming with a computer would be ok, but not if I need to leave it set up. Any thoughts really appreciated. Thank you
     
  4. HC.Carbo

    HC.Carbo Journeyman
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  5. RichB1

    RichB1 New
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    another question, is there a place where I can find local people who are knowledgeable about this stuff? I'd love to meet them, watch them work and learn. I tried googling, but apparently didn't hit on the correct search terms, or else there is no one around here (richmond, VA)
     
  6. HC.Carbo

    HC.Carbo Journeyman
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    with limit switches.
    simple as... :D
     
  7. RichB1

    RichB1 New
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    HC Carbo, thanks I watched the video. didn't see anything about using limit switches. Also, do you have any thoughts about how to find local people who already do this so I can learn from them? thanks
     
  8. HC.Carbo

    HC.Carbo Journeyman
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    @ 9.13
    look for a local (open)Lab, hackerspaces ...
     

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