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National STEM Learning Centre and Network
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Make It Move: Rotating Arm Actuator
In this design challenge from the National STEM Learning Centre and Network, students make a rotating arm actuator. This uses a geared dc motor to turn a friction fit arm. Two cams can be set at different angles to operate limit switches to control the movement of the arm.
Power is fed to the motor using an H bridge switching circuit. Two single pole double terminal switches are used to control the on/off and forward/reverse directions of the motor.
Students must consider:
* The motor output actions for different combinations of the drive switches. For example, switch positions for clockwise or anticlockwise movement.
* How feedback is used to automate the system?
* What such an actuator could be used for.
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Rotating arm actuator (teachers' notes) 242.08 KB -
Rotating arm actuator (activity sheet) 217.04 KB
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