Position Controlled Linear Actuator with mm Level of Accuracy

This project integrates mechanical and electronic subsystems to achieve precise linear movement managed by an Arduino Uno. At the heart of the actuation mechanism is a 15cm lead screw with a 2mm pitch, paired with 3D printed mechanical parts and standard fasteners. Rotational force is supplied by a servo motor, which turns the lead screw. Because the lead screw translates rotational motion into linear motion at a fixed 2mm pitch per revolution, controlling the exact angular rotation of the servo motor directly correlates to precise linear displacement down to the millimeter level. To provide feedback and closed-loop distance control, an ultrasonic sensor is integrated into the system, communicating with the Arduino board via a dedicated ultrasonic sensor library. The Arduino processes the distance measurements read by the ultrasonic sensor, compares them against target position parameters, and drives the servo motor accordingly using connecting cables to route power and control signals. Everything is physically held together using robust fasteners and secure assembly techniques like glue where appropriate for the 3D printed components. The entire control logic is programmed, compiled, and uploaded via the Arduino IDE, while any custom modifications to the mechanical housing can be modeled in CAD software such as Fusion 360, Tinkercad, or DesignSpark.

Robotics, automated positioning systems, mechatronics experiments, and precision machinery.