Stories

Looking for some linear actuator ideas for hobby automation? For the home hobbyist who likes building and inventing, knowing about linear actuators is a must. Actuators are simply mechanisms that convert energy into movement along a straight line. A regular motor differs from a linear actuator in that a motor creates rotational movement. There is a device available for every conceivable use by a hobbyist. The Many Roles An actuator may be dr...

Progressive Automations had a chance to speak with Michael McMaster about his new R2-D2 and R4-P17 - and yes, he'll be using our actuators. When Mike McMaster got the itch to recreate a working model of R2-D2, like so many of us, have contemplated in the past, he came upon the R2 Builder's Club Yahoo! Group. After his first build was a smashing success, he's about to do it again. This time, he's not only got his eye on a new R2-D2. He's planni...

Our Aquarium hood lift kit is perfect for those who have an aquarium hood in a position where it cannot be easily reached, too heavy, if you want to add a more convenient way to open it or just to have a sleek look. Using linear actuators to open and close your hood lift makes the job of feeding the fish and cleaning the tank a lot easier and straightforward. To create your own aquarium hood lift we recommend using 2 x PA-14 linear actuators, 4 x mounting brackets and our PA-30 control box with wireless remote and an AC adapter.

Another inspirational project by the young to assist the elderly. Progressive Automations proudly sponsored Team S.C.A.R as they won the grand championship in the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Lego League Competition this year. Eleven teams participated in the March 2013 robotics event themed around improving the quality of life for the elderly by promoting their independence. Slips and falls are the most p...

Students from the Florida A&M University and Florida State University are competing in the RASC-AL ROBO-OPS competition. To find out more about the robot and the competition take a look at the video below as well as information from one of the students who brought this rover to life. "We are a team of six engineering students from the Florida A&M University and Florida State University who are competing in the RASC-AL ROBO-OPS compet...

Seeking out new ways to improve your home theater experience? You can build your own projector lift using linear actuators and automation products from Progressive Automations. If you’re still wondering whether you should get yourself a projector or television or a motorized TV lift, consider the benefits of getting the one. The Pros Projectors aren’t limited to any screen size. Depending on how big you want the picture to be, you can adjust...