Alternative to DART actuators?

[waterbott]

Are there any alternatives to the DART actuators that are both legal and similar in pricing to the DART actuators (http://www.andymark.com/DART-p/am-3072a.htm) provided by Andymark? All the other ones available seem to either not support legal motors, or have components in them that would make it illegal.

[cad321]

A hydro works linear actuator (model 8489098) is what we are looking at using this year. After opening it up the motor supplied it almost identical to a bag in sizing. The bolt holes are slightly different so it's not quite plug and play but for the price it's pretty darn good. Throw a flat on the bag motor shaft and drill 2 new mounting holes and you're set.

http://www.princessauto.com/en/detail/12v-dc-12-in-stroke-135-lb-linear-actuator/A-p8489098e

[jagoldman]

You could always use a lead screw and nut (http://www.andymark.com/Lead-Screw-p/am-leadscrew.htm) configuration with a pulley or a belt to get the same type of movement. Another good solution is also pneumatics.

[waterbott]

Thanks for the advice, I appreciate it.