How To

At Progressive Automations, we love to receive feedback from clients who have used our linear actuators in innovative and interesting ways! One such project involved our customer, Sam, who built an automated bed with linear actuators to fit inside his tiny house build. Space and head room are always an issue in structures like this, so being able to raise the bed above head height was a great way to utilize the available space. [cta] [cta-cont...

At Progressive Automations, we offer many options for controlling your linear actuator. From simple solutions like rocker switches, to our more advanced controllers such as the PA-35 Wi-Fi Control Box, we have many plug-and-play choices. However, sometimes project requirements and customer needs are a little more unique than what these options can offer. This is where microcontrollers can really be our friends. In this article, we will be goin...

Sometimes our projects need some added security. This can be the case in a variety of different applications such as door-lock mechanisms, prevention of unsafe or unauthorized use of machinery or getting even more niche, escape room props. In this article we will take you through a keypad actuator assembly and go over how you can password-protect the operation of your linear actuator. Here is what we will be using: Arduino Uno. 4x4 matrix key...

When it comes to choosing the right actuator voltage, it is crucial to consider the number of variables that will enable it to operate at its full potential. These main considerations include the available actuator current, voltage, power (i.e. choosing an appropriate power supply), voltage drops, as well as the speed and force you require from the linear actuator. Moreover, it is not just the quantity of voltage being supplied that is importa...

Boat hatch actuators serve a critical role on marine vessels as they keep the environment from reaching sensitive areas, be it the living quarters or mechanical and electronic equipment. These hatches tend to be heavy due to the nature of their function and as such, it is often difficult to open them by hand when required, especially in choppy waters. This article will explore how to automate the boat hatch with a linear actuator and what fact...

A remote controlled linear actuator enables the actuator stroke length to be positioned and controlled through the use of a remote device, acting as the user interface of the linear actuator. The remote provides a convenient way to send signals to the actuator for it to extend, retract, or stop. It’s particularly useful in applications where the actuator is located at height or distance from where it is to be controlled. Depending on the type ...