Pros and Cons of Using Pneumatics

[Stephen Kowski]

I think that the KOP is great, but I cannot seem to get over how much it weighs. If you need a linear actuation it is going to be hard to get a better effectiveness through a rack and pinion, lead screw, or something else but the compressor and the tanks are a needed evil to do this. My main issue is that you have no choice with the pnuematics even though there have been hints over the years we may see some changes. We don't ever have more than two cylinders nor can we change the compressor to something smaller/lighter.

I know where pnuematics are the best option, but adding the entire circuit for one function is not worth it. There have been upgraded motor, controllers, electronics, lights/blinking LEDs, when will we see some changes to the pnuematic circuit beyond how many/what kind of solenoids we can use (I believe that was 2004 when it was under direst because of the lack of stock from SMC)?