[KrazyCarl92]

The rod of a pneumatic cylinder is more likely to bend if it experiences a side load or moment at the end of the rod while it is in its extended state. In the retracted state, the rod of the cylinder will be less likely to bend. I do not have specific experience with articulating drives, so maybe someone who does could chime in, but this might be important to consider if you are worried about bending the rod of the pneumatic cylinder. Think about which configuration the cylinder is most likely to experience side/bending loads, then make that the retracted position.