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Introducing Our New Range of Modular Lifting Columns
Nathan Bong
In many applications, electric lifting columns are the perfect solution for driving linear motion...
Tractor Front Loader Quick Release Locks by Chris Bolich
Nathan Bong
In agriculture, there are always new solutions being discovered and used to help boost efficiency...
High Load Linear Actuators PA-HD1 and PA-HD1-HALL Overview
Nathan Bong
Electric linear actuators are commonly found in demanding applications that require durable const...
Furniture Actuators: Where To Find Them and How They Work
Nathan Bong
Linear actuators can be found in many different appliances and machinery, but one of the most pre...
Engineering Career Progression Webinar: Insights with Mike Senna
In an insightful webinar hosted by Progressive Automations, we are proud to have Mike Senna, a renowned robotics innovator and engineering mentor as our guest speaker. Senna, well-known for creating iconic robots such as Wall-E, R2-D2, and BB-8, shared his experiences, career lessons, and key principles that aspiring engineers should adopt for success. This article encapsulates the valuable insights from the webinar, touching on skill developm...
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440 Stainless Steel: The Ultimate Guide to High-Performance Martensitic Steel
Stainless steels are highly sought after in many industries because of their durability, corrosion resistance, and reliable performance under challenging conditions. Among the many variants available, the 440 series of stainless steels offers some of the highest hardness and wear resistance, making it an essential choice for applications that demand both strength and a long service life. With carbon content levels higher than many other stainl...
Author Title:PA Engineer|consumer-products|industrial-automation|material-handling-loading|mechanical-systems|medical-lab-equipment|yachts-boats
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2035 Vision: The Convergence of Smart Manufacturing, Clean Energy, and AI Reshaping Our Future
The next decade promises remarkable transformations in the way we live, manufacture, power our homes, and collaborate with advanced machines. While the emergence of new technologies is always an exciting prospect, it also comes with responsibilities and a shift in our mindset. By 2025, we can anticipate greater awareness of climate-related issues, more accessible innovations, and growing integration of robotics and automation in daily processe...
Author Title:PA Engineer|energy-sustainability|industrial-automation
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France's Next-Gen Nuclear Reactor: Pioneering the Future of Clean Energy
France has long been recognized as a leading force in nuclear energy, and the startup of its latest next-generation nuclear reactor further cements the country’s commitment to harnessing low-carbon power sources. This new installation represents an advanced level of technology that promises enhanced safety protocols, more efficient electricity generation, and improved reliability for decades to come. Despite the fact that its construction was ...
Author Title:PA Engineer|energy-sustainability
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Motorized Louvered Roof Pergola Upgrade with PA-10 Actuators
Motorized louvered roofs offer a convenient and efficient way of making accurate adjustments, positions, and tilt angles for outdoor pergolas spaces. Linear actuators are commonly used as the drive mechanism for the motion that adjusts the louvers according to a user’s preference for airflow, sunlight, and rain cover. While the aesthetic enhancements and functional benefits are something many enjoy, the actuators will eventually require replac...
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Top Secrets Home Automation Manufacturers Don't Know: The Role of Actuators
In the era of smart homes, most people focus on sleek designs and advanced automation. We’re impressed by voice-activated lights, blinds that open at sunrise, and home theaters that pop up with the press of a button. But behind all this convenience is something many overlook — the actuator. Linear motion products power the movements and functions that make automated home systems run smoothly. Today, we'll take a closer look at actuators and wh...
Author Title:Content Copywriter
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ATV Dozer Blade and Bucket Loader Combo with PA-17 Actuators
Dozer blades and bucket loaders often require heavy-duty components to maintain optimal efficiency and operations in harsh conditions. One of our customers, Shawn, uses his ATV Dozer Blade and Bucket Loader Combo system with our PA-17 heavy duty linear actuators to enhance versatility and efficiency. This combination allows for maintaining snow parks, tubing chutes, and cross-country ski trails in the Montreal region during winter and excavati...
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Before and After: How Electric Linear Actuators Are Transforming Excavator Design
Imagine excavators as the powerhouse tools of construction, tirelessly moving earth and materials. For decades, these machines depended on hydraulic systems, a tried-and-true technology that powered their heavy lifting. But as industries demanded more — greater precision, reduced costs, and environmental accountability — a new era of design was born.
This “before and after” story illustrates how modern excavator technology has leaped forward,...
Author Title:Content Copywriter
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Improving Boating Safety with Linear Motion in Marine Technology
Marine technology has advanced significantly over the years, contributing to enhanced safety measures that allow clients to enjoy maritime journeys with peace of mind. Among these technological innovations, linear motion systems with marine actuators have emerged to improve boating safety as a top priority of any marine technology. This article covers how marine actuators in linear motion solutions play a pivotal role in marine technology, enh...
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Linear Actuators vs Rotary Motors in Ventilation Systems
In an ever-changing world of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, innovations continue to emerge, improving efficiency, control, and energy use. Two such pivotal components in automated ventilation systems are linear actuators and rotary motors. Each plays a crucial role in controlling airflow and optimizing the climate within buildings. In this article, we will highlight critical details of linear actuators and rotary mo...
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The Future of Electric Vehicles Manufacturing: How New Technologies are Shaping the Industry
The future of electric vehicles (EVs) is full of promise. As more people turn to sustainable transportation, EV manufacturers are using advanced technologies to transform the industry. These innovations are making production faster, cheaper, and more efficient, helping to meet the growing demand. From AI automation to new battery technology and improved manufacturing methods, the EV industry is changing quickly. In this article, let’s explore ...
Author Title:Content Copywriter
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The Latest Trends in Medical Furniture Automation Technology
In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, medical furniture is no longer just about functionality - comfort and patient experience are becoming equally critical. Among the various components that enhance the utility of medical furniture, linear actuators stand out as pivotal elements that significantly improve both the efficiency of healthcare providers and the comfort of patients. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the latest trends in medic...
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FLTCON Control Box to Home Automation Compatibility
Home automation significantly enhances the convenience, safety, and overall efficiency of numerous households by integrating advanced technology into everyday living. By automating various household functions, such as lighting, heating, security systems, and appliances, homeowners can enjoy a more streamlined and comfortable living environment. To fully leverage the benefits of home automation with our hall effect actuators and memory presets,...
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Micro Linear Actuators: Revolutionizing Precision in Medical Devices
In the rapidly advancing field of medical technology, the demand for precise, reliable, and compact components is ever-increasing. Micro linear actuators have emerged as indispensable elements in modern medical devices, offering controlled linear motion in applications where precision is paramount. At Progressive Automations, we recognize these actuators' pivotal role in enhancing patient care and advancing medical innovation.
Applications of ...
assistive-devices-care|Author Title:PA Engineer|fitness-rehabilitation|medical-lab-equipment|treatment-chairs-tables
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Electric Actuators: Revolutionizing Industrial Automation Beyond Hydraulic Cylinders
In recent years, the field of industrial automation has witnessed significant advancements, particularly in the realm of actuation technology. Electric actuators have emerged as a viable and often superior alternative to traditional hydraulic cylinders. These innovations offer numerous benefits, including enhanced control, increased precision, reduced maintenance, and a lower total cost of ownership. This article explores the evolution of elec...
Author Title:PA Engineer|construction|material-handling-agvs|mobile-machinery-agriculture-farming|outdoor-landscaping
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Revolutionizing Healthcare: The Impact of Miniaturization and Linear Actuators in Medical Equipment
The medical industry is undergoing a transformative evolution, with a significant emphasis on reducing the size of medical equipment without compromising functionality or efficiency. This trend towards miniaturization is pivotal in enhancing patient care, improving accessibility, and optimizing healthcare services. Linear actuators play a crucial role in this advancement, offering precise motion control in compact forms. As a leader in automat...
Author Title:PA Engineer|medical-lab-equipment
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Introducing Progressive Automations' Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative
At Progressive Automations, we believe that success goes beyond creating innovative products — it’s about making a positive impact on the world around us. That’s why we launched our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative in 2024!
We’re excited to focus on key areas like empowering new generations, helping communities thrive, promoting inclusivity, and embracing sustainable solutions. Through these efforts, we’re committed to contrib...
Author Title:Content Copywriter
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Common Misconceptions in Selecting Actuators for Bimini Tops
Bimini tops are essential for boating under the bright sun, providing users shade as sun protection against the scorching rays while adding an element of style and comfort. Automatic deployment of Bimini tops through electric linear actuators enhances overall user convenience and brings their boating experience to the next level. Choosing the right actuators for your Bimini tops is a critical part of ensuring smooth sailing, however, misconcep...
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Powering the Future: How Linear Actuators are Transforming Off-Highway Machinery Design
The world of off-highway machinery is undergoing a seismic shift as the push for smarter, more efficient technologies takes center stage. Engineers and designers are constantly seeking ways to enhance the mechanical design and functionality of industrial machines, and at the heart of this revolution is the linear actuator. This article explores how these powerful devices are not just components but the driving force behind the next generation ...
Author Title:Content Copywriter
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Automated Mystery Box Gaming PC with PA-14 Actuator
Gaming PC builders take great pleasure in customizing their systems to enhance functionality, create immersive experiences, and express their creativity. Automating various aspects of a gaming PC can transform it into a themed mystery box, intriguing an audience while doubling in functionality to allow for airflow with the opening motion. If you are looking for inspirational ideas for mystery boxes or modifying your gaming PC, this is just the...
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Catamaran Boat Drop Down Kicker Motor Bracket with PA-06 Actuator
Imagine gliding effortlessly over the sun-dappled waves, your catamaran slicing through the water like a hot knife through butter. This is the dream of every custom catamaran owner, and achieving it requires not just passion, but also the right technology. If you are looking for new ideas to upgrade your custom catamaran boat, this is just the article for you! We will cover highlights of Gregory Kingsley’s custom catamaran boat upgrade with ou...
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The Future of UTV & ATV Design: How New Technologies Are Shaping the Industry
In the ever-evolving world of automotive engineering, actuator technology advancements have emerged as a pivotal force in transforming the design and manufacturing processes of Utility Task Vehicles (UTVs) and All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs). This revolution is driving significant improvements in user experience and reshaping industry practices, making UTVs and ATVs more efficient, reliable, and enjoyable for end-users.
In this article, we will i...
Author Title:Content Copywriter
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Rocker Switches & Joysticks for Electric Actuator Controls
Rocker switches and joysticks are popular actuator control solutions for use cases that require a simple and reliable operation. Besides having an intuitive design that many users find easy to use and install, they also offer versatility in the range of available options and can be discreetly located. Rocker switches can be recessed into a wall or into an enclosure box, making them out-of-sight yet easily accessible. Joysticks offer the benefi...
Control Boxes|Linear Actuator|rocker switches
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How To Avoid Electric Failures in Agricultural Machinery
Electric linear actuators are a crucial component in driving precise and controlled linear motion in agricultural machinery, ranging from combine harvesters to vertical farming. However, like any electrical component, linear actuators require proper usage and integration to avoid electric failures. Due to the broad range of requirements needed in agricultural machinery, many variables and operational practices need to be considered when using ...
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Stair Climbing Wheelchair Using PA-17-POT Actuator
Individuals with limited or no leg mobility often require mobility devices capable of navigating terrain with rough surfaces, minor stairways, individual steps, and snowy conditions. Although wheelchair solutions are available on the market, they often do not adequately address these challenges or are too expensive for many users who need affordable solutions. The CMD (Collapsible Mobile Device) project aims to provide wheelchair users with es...
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Military Automation: Pioneering a New Era in Defense Technology
In the rapidly evolving landscape of defense, military automation technology is transforming the way armed forces operate. From enhancing the efficiency of equipment to enabling advanced strategic operations, automation is at the forefront of military innovation. This article explores the pivotal role of automation in modern military strategies, the impact of linear actuators in military applications, and future trends in automation in armed f...
Author Title:Content Copywriter|General
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Maximizing Solar Panel Efficiency with Linear Actuators
In an era where renewable energy becomes not just a choice but a necessity, the innovation in solar technology stands at the forefront of this green revolution. Among the advancements, linear actuators for solar tracking have emerged as game changers. These mechanisms enable solar panels to move in harmony with the sun’s path, drastically increasing the efficiency of solar energy systems. This article delves deep into the world of actuator-pow...
Actuators|article_time:8.6|Author Title:Content Copywriter|Automation|Linear|Panels|Power|Projects|related_heading: Title 2|Solar|Solar Panel
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Automating Your Home with Linear Actuators: A Guide to Modern Living
In the rapidly evolving landscape of smart home technology, enhancing home efficiency with linear actuators represents a cutting-edge approach to modern living. These compact and versatile devices transform electrical energy into motion, allowing for the precise control of various elements within your household. From smoothly sliding doors to adjustable furniture and beyond, linear actuators introduce a level of convenience, accessibility, and...
Actuator|Author Title:Content Copywriter|Automated|Automation|Furniture|Home|Kitchen|Linear|Living Room|Progressive Automations|Project|Projects
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Guide to Control Systems for Electric Linear Actuators
To fully harness the potential of electric linear actuators, it is essential to understand and implement the right control systems. By choosing the right control systems for electric linear actuators, applications can experience benefits such as greater precision, ease of use, and performance optimization.
This page is dedicated to understanding the different types of control systems for electric linear actuators, how they work, the benefits t...
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Transforming Vehicles with Linear Actuators: From Cars to Tot Rods
In the rapidly advancing world of technology, linear actuators have become essential components in both automotive upgrades and innovative DIY projects like the Tot Rod automation. These devices, which convert electrical energy into precise linear motion, can significantly enhance the functionality and customization of vehicles, whether it's your everyday car or a specially designed toy vehicle for children. This comprehensive guide explores h...
12v Actuators|Actuator|Author Title:Content Copywriter
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Automating Your Recreational Vehicle with Linear Actuators
Gone are the days where recreational vehicles (RVs) were crammed with a bed, a bathroom, and a kitchen. Thanks to the rapid development of technology, modern RVs, packed with high-tech equipment and smart storages, have turned into compact living solutions, allowing for a more spacious interior. In this comprehensive article, we will explore how you can employ linear actuators in RVs to automate it and look into an exciting DIY project for a c...
Author Title:Content Copywriter|General
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Car Lift System Using PA-QR1 Quick Release Actuators
Car lifts with quick operation are beneficial in racing pit stop applications that require cars to be regularly serviced and ready for racing in a short period of time. Examples include rigorous off-road races held all year round in vastly varied terrains, locations, and weather in the BAJA SAE competitions. Custom off-road vehicles performing in these harsh conditions often require extensive maintenance and repair. During our in-person visits...
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Sliding Bolt Latch Using PA-MC1 Micro Linear Actuators
Sliding bolt latches can be found nearly everywhere we go as a means of locking and securing doors. By integrating DIY electric locks, users can benefit from the added convenience and safety found in home automation. In this article, we will cover how Nathan Bong created his own DIY lock mechanism for an automated sliding bolt latch using the PA-MC1 micro linear actuator. By following this guide, you'll have a DIY automated sliding bolt latch ...
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Introducing Our New PA-ST1 High-Speed Linear Actuator
High-speed linear actuators are critical components in applications that require rapid movement through a drive that offers fast travel speeds in a linear path. Combining the benefits of fast travel speeds with high static force ratings and a water resistant design for added durability and reliability further expands the possibilities of an actuator to be suitable in various applications. In this product overview, we will be covering our recen...
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Introducing Our IP65 Micro Linear Actuator Model PA-MC1
Versatility and an ultra compact design for micro linear actuators are essential for industry use cases with tight space constraints. Linear actuators often have a trade-off in performance capabilities and durability to achieve their ultra compact form factor. However, improving technologies have allowed for versatile micro linear actuators capable of handling outdoor use cases. In this product overview, we will be covering our recently releas...
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Introducing Our Mini Linear Actuator PA-01 with IP65 Protection
Durability and space efficiency are often highly demanded features from electric linear actuators to be used in areas with space constraints and exposure to the outdoor elements. Ideally, having these benefits without compromising performance and ease of integration would offer the versatility to handle a large range of applications across various industries. In this product overview, we will be covering our recently released Mini Linear Actua...
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Introducing Our New LG-11 and LG-13 Modular Lifting Columns
Many applications that require a drive system for linear motion utilize electric lifting columns as they offer versatile performance capabilities, smooth operations, and safety features. To keep up with customer demands and the rising growth of new project ideas, our team continues to develop, innovate, and release new lifting column designs in various shapes and sizes that can meet your needs. In this article, we will be covering the overview...
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Progressive Automations and BCIT Engineering Clubs Collaborations
As a pioneer in the industry since 2008, we believe that taking time to give back to the community and support young students is a crucial part of helping shape a brighter future for our next generation of engineers. There are many ways to support a community of young students, including participation in local events and collaborations with engineering clubs that offer valuable opportunities for the students. In this article, we will cover hig...
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How Electric Linear Actuators Meet Lawn Mower Requirements
Electric linear actuators offer many benefits in lawn mower applications as they can significantly improve operational convenience, efficiency, and user ergonomics. Being available in many different sizes, specifications, and customization options allows for the versatility to handle a range from small to large scale ride on lawn mower use cases. This article will cover the important aspects of electric linear actuators for lawn mowers such as...
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Log Splitter Upgrade with PA-17 Heavy Duty Linear Actuator
Handling heavy machinery such as log splitters can be quite a challenging and physically demanding task, especially for users who have to use them on a frequent basis. Through the use of electric linear actuators, users have the capability to integrate upgrades that offer endless kinds of possibilities and conveniences. In this article, we will cover how Ron Ewart was able to upgrade his log splitter with our PA-17 heavy duty linear actuator t...
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Introducing Our New PA-TS1 Telescopic Linear Actuator
Space constraints are often one of the major challenges found in projects with mechanical systems that require electric linear actuators with positional feedback. Actuators with positional feedback for advanced controls are quite common nowadays, however, actuators that utilize telescopic compact designs for extended reach are not as readily available. In this product overview, we will be covering our recently released PA-TS1 which is speciali...
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DIY Automatic Door for Trap Launcher by April Wilkerson
Enjoying a new hobby and trying out new things everyday is a great way of learning something new and can sometimes lead to a new passion in a sport or recreational activity. Recreational shooting is one example of many different fun outdoor activities that often require lots of space for a shooting range setup or storage space for the different necessary equipment. In this article, we will cover the highlights of how April Wilkerson made a DIY...
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Stairwell Conversion into a Pantry with a Hidden Door Entrance
Nowadays, the use of actuators in home automation can benefit homeowners in so many ways. Examples of home automation benefits include improved privacy, safety, convenience, and space optimization in confined areas. A home’s stairwell is often an area with a decent amount of unused space that can be improved through home automation for better space optimization. In this article, we will cover the highlights of how Bryan Kelly’s stairwell was c...
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New PA-41 Control System: Controlling Multiple Linear Actuators
Many applications that operate with electromechanical systems require a single control system that has the capability of operating multiple actuators at the same time. These types of advanced linear actuator controls can allow for advanced features such as synchronous motion, memory preset positions, and the user convenience of being able to access all actuators from one controller. This article will showcase our new PA-41 Control System while...
Automation|Control System|General|How To|Linear Actuator|Microcontrollers|Products|Project|Projects
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High Load Linear Actuators PA-HD1 and PA-HD1-HALL Overview
Electric linear actuators are commonly found in demanding applications that require durable construction, high load ratings, and the ability to handle exposure to outdoor elements. Being cost-effective without compromise is a nice bonus, however, some use cases may also require all these benefits in addition to positional feedback for synchronous motion capabilities. In this product overview, we will be covering our recently released PA-HD1 an...
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Introducing Our New Range of Modular Lifting Columns
In many applications, electric lifting columns are the perfect solution for driving linear motion as they offer benefits such as versatile performance capabilities, smooth operations, and safety features. However, certain sets of lifting columns on the market may only come limited to one configuration with a fixed number of legs and no options to select between different models of control boxes or remotes. Thanks to popular demand from our cus...
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Assessing Washdown Actuators in the Food & Beverage Industry
In the food & beverage industry, production lines must follow practices and cleaning procedures such as washdowns to maintain good hygiene standards and meet consumer safety requirements. The use of linear actuators for driving the motion found in food & beverage production equipment is invaluable, however, these actuators must be able to handle the high temperature and water pressure during washdowns. This article will cover the impor...
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DIY Adjustable Bed for Campervan Conversion
Adjustable beds are among the most highly sought-after bed solutions on the market since they have the flexibility of adjusting to many different configurations to maximize comfort, health benefits, and versatility. When converting their Ford Transit into a campervan, Ashleigh & Zach knew they wanted to keep the same benefits of adjustable beds to allow for the head and foot sections to rise separately. This was something they had never se...
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Tractor Front Loader Quick Release Locks by Chris Bolich
In agriculture, there are always new solutions being discovered and used to help boost efficiency and convenience, which ultimately helps improve productivity. This can bee seen through the examples of modifying tractors with upgrades that can enhance operation efficiency and user-friendliness. When changing a tractor from buckets to pallet forks, to grapples, the process can take up quite a lot of time when done manually. By adding modificati...
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Comparing Technologies: Optical Encoders VS Hall Effect Sensors
When properly implemented, positional feedback can allow multiple actuators to move together synchronously, use preset memory positions, and travel with higher accuracy and precision. Both optical encoders and hall effect sensors are popular for reading the positional feedback of a motor with good accuracy; however, each feedback option offers different benefits that can favor certain applications more than others. This article will compare th...
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DIY Automatic Chicken Coop Door by April Wilkerson
Raising chickens and having access to fresh eggs everyday is truly rewarding, however, there are a few challenges that come with having to keep an eye on the chickens and the coop every day. Although the chickens will go inside their chicken coop every evening on their own, manual coop doors will require users to remember every morning and every evening to coop and uncoop them. Proudly sponsored by Progressive Automations, we will cover how Ap...
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Furniture Actuators: Where To Find Them and How They Work
Linear actuators can be found in many different appliances and machinery, but one of the most prevalent uses we see them in is through automated smart furniture. In furniture making, they help with improving storage security, space optimization, and promoting ergonomic designs through proper posture. By allowing furniture to adjust into different configurations, furniture actuators can also introduce a stylish appearance to suit the ever-chang...
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Popular Applications That Benefit from Micro Linear Actuators
There are many applications with space and weight limitations that would require small and portable electric linear actuators to operate. In some cases, there may also be a need for these devices to have the additional feature of water resistance. The PA-07 Micro Linear Actuators are among the smallest actuators we offer for a compact form factor while also offering an IP66 water resistance rating and simple plug-and-play controls. In this art...
Actuator|article_time: 3.65|Automated|Control System|Electric|Featured|Home Automation|Linear Actuator|Microcontroller|Products|Project|Projects|related_heading: Micro Actuators: Popular Applications|robots
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Electric Reverse for Jet Ski using Linear Actuators
Jet skiing is a fun activity that many water sports enthusiasts enjoy and can introduce the opportunity to test out different models of jet skis on the market. Jet skis can come in a range of different shapes, sizes, and price points, with unique features to choose from. This is where some users could benefit from modifying and personalizing their jet skis according to their preferences while also enjoying the build process along the way. In t...
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