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Question Actuator part sizing

Discussion in 'DIY Motion Simulator Building Q&A / FAQ' started by Map63Vette, Jul 13, 2024.

  1. Map63Vette

    Map63Vette Member

    Joined:
    May 19, 2016
    Messages:
    136
    Occupation:
    Mechanical Engineer
    Location:
    Lawrence, KS
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    I've started building my first actuator for a 6 DOF rig, but so far only have the bare essentials for a control system test assembled with some test pieces 3d printed to check fitment. I've also started putting together a full BOM for each actuator to try to better estimate pricing and part quantities for order. However, at this point I'm just trying to cost optimize everything and second guessing myself every time I open my model and review it again. I'm building the typical linear rail style DIY actuators that I've found floating around here, but tweaking them to my own tastes and to try to keep them affordable. At the moment this is what I'm looking at:

    upload_2024-7-13_14-46-29.png

    The main question I've got for people out there is what size tube and end joints do you all use? This primary design utilizes a 1" main actuator tube with a 3/8" rod end on the top and a 1/2" u-joint on the bottom. The 1" tube was partially because I was planning to put a nylon sleeve inside it for a close fit to the ball screw to offer better support from it whipping around inside the tube, but I think I can achieve the same effect with a 3/4" actuator tube and the right wall thickness. This would also drop the price of the linear bearing on the end of the actuator, but I question whether 3/4" is going to be enough. I think it would be plenty strong, but rigidity is probably the more important factor for a system like this. Also, is a 3/8" rod bearing enough or should I consider stepping up to 1/2" to match the u-joint on the bottom?
    Map63Vette, Jul 13, 2024
    #1