Linear Actuators?

[Dale]

SMA or muscle wire isn't like a bike cable. It's wire that remembers it's shape and returns to that shape by heating (usually through electric current) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shape-memory_alloy. A couple of videos http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9f-W6Xi_Wo and http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=Mh31B4Ryn9U

[EricH]

Ya know... There hasn't been anything in the rules about linear actuators being illegal.

However, the integral motors used to power them have been illegal. So, it's perfectly legitimate to build a linear actuator with a KOP motor--or remove the motor from a COTS linear actuator and replace it with a legal motor. Just make sure that if you go the latter route, you have documentation.

Also, look up "leadscrew".


Of course, I don't know the 2013 rules yet, so maybe there will be an allowance for said actuators.

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Please see R48 listing the only legal motors, servos and solenoids. There is no provisions for muscle wire. You may however use a similar product that is pneumatically operated and was supplied in the KOP last year.