3D Printing a Screw Actuator

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1

I want to create a project that uses a tightly packed (horizontally) array of linear actuators (most likely screw).
But all the ones I can find online as reference place the motor next to the screw, like this:

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Is there a reason for this?

I know next to nothing about it, but I plan to design and 3d print the whole thing myself by slapping a Servo’s beneath a screw to save space.

Does that already exist and I just havent found it?
If so what would be the name distinction between them and any reason to take one over the other?

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A linear actuator can require a lot torque to implement with a screw method. That is why you see the larger motors mounted so they directly gear with the screw mechanism. I am not certain if a servo would be able to generate enough torque to do what you described? Or it would be incredibly slow.

I have built an linear actuator with my son for a robotics tournament. They are generally metal because of the stress they can experience.

If you wanted to build one out of plastic, I image it would have very limited capabilities.

Here is a link to open metal version, if you want to see how they work:

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Something like this?

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4

Yeah something along that line, thanks for the share!
Though I plan on making it as small as possible, as it doesnt need to bear any load, other than the arm itself.

Also why I plan to use the servo.

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If you are just moving a small arm under no load I see no reason for it not to work.

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