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Introducing Our New Range of Modular Lifting Columns
Nathan Bong
In many applications, electric lifting columns are the perfect solution for driving linear motion...
Tractor Front Loader Quick Release Locks by Chris Bolich
Nathan Bong
In agriculture, there are always new solutions being discovered and used to help boost efficiency...
High Load Linear Actuators PA-HD1 and PA-HD1-HALL Overview
Nathan Bong
Electric linear actuators are commonly found in demanding applications that require durable const...
Furniture Actuators: Where To Find Them and How They Work
Nathan Bong
Linear actuators can be found in many different appliances and machinery, but one of the most pre...
The Future of UTV & ATV Design: How New Technologies Are Shaping the Industry
In the ever-evolving world of automotive engineering, actuator technology advancements have emerged as a pivotal force in transforming the design and manufacturing processes of Utility Task Vehicles (UTVs) and All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs). This revolution is driving significant improvements in user experience and reshaping industry practices, making UTVs and ATVs more efficient, reliable, and enjoyable for end-users.
In this article, we will i...
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Rocker Switches & Joysticks for Electric Actuator Controls
Rocker switches and joysticks are popular actuator control solutions for use cases that require a simple and reliable operation. Besides having an intuitive design that many users find easy to use and install, they also offer versatility in the range of available options and can be discreetly located. Rocker switches can be recessed into a wall or into an enclosure box, making them out-of-sight yet easily accessible. Joysticks offer the benefi...
Control Boxes|Linear Actuator|rocker switches
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How To Avoid Electric Failures in Agricultural Machinery
Electric linear actuators are a crucial component in driving precise and controlled linear motion in agricultural machinery, ranging from combine harvesters to vertical farming. However, like any electrical component, linear actuators require proper usage and integration to avoid electric failures. Due to the broad range of requirements needed in agricultural machinery, many variables and operational practices need to be considered when using ...
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Stair Climbing Wheelchair Using PA-17-POT Actuator
Individuals with limited or no leg mobility often require mobility devices capable of navigating terrain with rough surfaces, minor stairways, individual steps, and snowy conditions. Although wheelchair solutions are available on the market, they often do not adequately address these challenges or are too expensive for many users who need affordable solutions. The CMD (Collapsible Mobile Device) project aims to provide wheelchair users with es...
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Military Automation: Pioneering a New Era in Defense Technology
In the rapidly evolving landscape of defense, military automation technology is transforming the way armed forces operate. From enhancing the efficiency of equipment to enabling advanced strategic operations, automation is at the forefront of military innovation. This article explores the pivotal role of automation in modern military strategies, the impact of linear actuators in military applications, and future trends in automation in armed f...
Author Title:Content Copywriter|General
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Maximizing Solar Panel Efficiency with Linear Actuators
In an era where renewable energy becomes not just a choice but a necessity, the innovation in solar technology stands at the forefront of this green revolution. Among the advancements, linear actuators for solar tracking have emerged as game changers. These mechanisms enable solar panels to move in harmony with the sun’s path, drastically increasing the efficiency of solar energy systems. This article delves deep into the world of actuator-pow...
Actuators|article_time:8.6|Author Title:Content Copywriter|Automation|Linear|Panels|Power|Projects|related_heading: Title 2|Solar|Solar Panel
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Automating Your Home with Linear Actuators: A Guide to Modern Living
In the rapidly evolving landscape of smart home technology, enhancing home efficiency with linear actuators represents a cutting-edge approach to modern living. These compact and versatile devices transform electrical energy into motion, allowing for the precise control of various elements within your household. From smoothly sliding doors to adjustable furniture and beyond, linear actuators introduce a level of convenience, accessibility, and...
Actuator|Author Title:Content Copywriter|Automated|Automation|Furniture|Home|Kitchen|Linear|Living Room|Progressive Automations|Project|Projects
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Guide to Control Systems for Electric Linear Actuators
To fully harness the potential of electric linear actuators, it is essential to understand and implement the right control systems. By choosing the right control systems for electric linear actuators, applications can experience benefits such as greater precision, ease of use, and performance optimization.
This page is dedicated to understanding the different types of control systems for electric linear actuators, how they work, the benefits t...
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Transforming Vehicles with Linear Actuators: From Cars to Tot Rods
In the rapidly advancing world of technology, linear actuators have become essential components in both automotive upgrades and innovative DIY projects like the Tot Rod automation. These devices, which convert electrical energy into precise linear motion, can significantly enhance the functionality and customization of vehicles, whether it's your everyday car or a specially designed toy vehicle for children. This comprehensive guide explores h...
12v Actuators|Actuator|Author Title:Content Copywriter
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Automating Your Recreational Vehicle with Linear Actuators
Gone are the days where recreational vehicles (RVs) were crammed with a bed, a bathroom, and a kitchen. Thanks to the rapid development of technology, modern RVs, packed with high-tech equipment and smart storages, have turned into compact living solutions, allowing for a more spacious interior. In this comprehensive article, we will explore how you can employ linear actuators in RVs to automate it and look into an exciting DIY project for a c...
Author Title:Content Copywriter|General
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Car Lift System Using PA-QR1 Quick Release Actuators
Car lifts with quick operation are beneficial in racing pit stop applications that require cars to be regularly serviced and ready for racing in a short period of time. Examples include rigorous off-road races held all year round in vastly varied terrains, locations, and weather in the BAJA SAE competitions. Custom off-road vehicles performing in these harsh conditions often require extensive maintenance and repair. During our in-person visits...
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Sliding Bolt Latch Using PA-MC1 Micro Linear Actuators
Sliding bolt latches can be found nearly everywhere we go as a means of locking and securing doors. By integrating DIY electric locks, users can benefit from the added convenience and safety found in home automation. In this article, we will cover how Nathan Bong created his own DIY lock mechanism for an automated sliding bolt latch using the PA-MC1 micro linear actuator. By following this guide, you'll have a DIY automated sliding bolt latch ...
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Introducing Our New PA-ST1 High-Speed Linear Actuator
High-speed linear actuators are critical components in applications that require rapid movement through a drive that offers fast travel speeds in a linear path. Combining the benefits of fast travel speeds with high static force ratings and a water resistant design for added durability and reliability further expands the possibilities of an actuator to be suitable in various applications. In this product overview, we will be covering our recen...
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Introducing Our IP65 Micro Linear Actuator Model PA-MC1
Versatility and an ultra compact design for micro linear actuators are essential for industry use cases with tight space constraints. Linear actuators often have a trade-off in performance capabilities and durability to achieve their ultra compact form factor. However, improving technologies have allowed for versatile micro linear actuators capable of handling outdoor use cases. In this product overview, we will be covering our recently releas...
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Introducing Our Mini Linear Actuator PA-01 with IP65 Protection
Durability and space efficiency are often highly demanded features from electric linear actuators to be used in areas with space constraints and exposure to the outdoor elements. Ideally, having these benefits without compromising performance and ease of integration would offer the versatility to handle a large range of applications across various industries. In this product overview, we will be covering our recently released Mini Linear Actua...
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Introducing Our New LG-11 and LG-13 Modular Lifting Columns
Many applications that require a drive system for linear motion utilize electric lifting columns as they offer versatile performance capabilities, smooth operations, and safety features. To keep up with customer demands and the rising growth of new project ideas, our team continues to develop, innovate, and release new lifting column designs in various shapes and sizes that can meet your needs. In this article, we will be covering the overview...
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Progressive Automations and BCIT Engineering Clubs Collaborations
As a pioneer in the industry since 2008, we believe that taking time to give back to the community and support young students is a crucial part of helping shape a brighter future for our next generation of engineers. There are many ways to support a community of young students, including participation in local events and collaborations with engineering clubs that offer valuable opportunities for the students. In this article, we will cover hig...
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How Electric Linear Actuators Meet Lawn Mower Requirements
Electric linear actuators offer many benefits in lawn mower applications as they can significantly improve operational convenience, efficiency, and user ergonomics. Being available in many different sizes, specifications, and customization options allows for the versatility to handle a range from small to large scale ride on lawn mower use cases. This article will cover the important aspects of electric linear actuators for lawn mowers such as...
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Log Splitter Upgrade with PA-17 Heavy Duty Linear Actuator
Handling heavy machinery such as log splitters can be quite a challenging and physically demanding task, especially for users who have to use them on a frequent basis. Through the use of electric linear actuators, users have the capability to integrate upgrades that offer endless kinds of possibilities and conveniences. In this article, we will cover how Ron Ewart was able to upgrade his log splitter with our PA-17 heavy duty linear actuator t...
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Introducing Our New PA-TS1 Telescopic Linear Actuator
Space constraints are often one of the major challenges found in projects with mechanical systems that require electric linear actuators with positional feedback. Actuators with positional feedback for advanced controls are quite common nowadays, however, actuators that utilize telescopic compact designs for extended reach are not as readily available. In this product overview, we will be covering our recently released PA-TS1 which is speciali...
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DIY Automatic Door for Trap Launcher by April Wilkerson
Enjoying a new hobby and trying out new things everyday is a great way of learning something new and can sometimes lead to a new passion in a sport or recreational activity. Recreational shooting is one example of many different fun outdoor activities that often require lots of space for a shooting range setup or storage space for the different necessary equipment. In this article, we will cover the highlights of how April Wilkerson made a DIY...
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Stairwell Conversion into a Pantry with a Hidden Door Entrance
Nowadays, the use of actuators in home automation can benefit homeowners in so many ways. Examples of home automation benefits include improved privacy, safety, convenience, and space optimization in confined areas. A home’s stairwell is often an area with a decent amount of unused space that can be improved through home automation for better space optimization. In this article, we will cover the highlights of how Bryan Kelly’s stairwell was c...
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New PA-41 Control System: Controlling Multiple Linear Actuators
Many applications that operate with electromechanical systems require a single control system that has the capability of operating multiple actuators at the same time. These types of advanced linear actuator controls can allow for advanced features such as synchronous motion, memory preset positions, and the user convenience of being able to access all actuators from one controller. This article will showcase our new PA-41 Control System while...
Automation|Control System|General|How To|Linear Actuator|Microcontrollers|Products|Project|Projects
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High Load Linear Actuators PA-HD1 and PA-HD1-HALL Overview
Electric linear actuators are commonly found in demanding applications that require durable construction, high load ratings, and the ability to handle exposure to outdoor elements. Being cost-effective without compromise is a nice bonus, however, some use cases may also require all these benefits in addition to positional feedback for synchronous motion capabilities. In this product overview, we will be covering our recently released PA-HD1 an...
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Introducing Our New Range of Modular Lifting Columns
In many applications, electric lifting columns are the perfect solution for driving linear motion as they offer benefits such as versatile performance capabilities, smooth operations, and safety features. However, certain sets of lifting columns on the market may only come limited to one configuration with a fixed number of legs and no options to select between different models of control boxes or remotes. Thanks to popular demand from our cus...
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Assessing Washdown Actuators in the Food & Beverage Industry
In the food & beverage industry, production lines must follow practices and cleaning procedures such as washdowns to maintain good hygiene standards and meet consumer safety requirements. The use of linear actuators for driving the motion found in food & beverage production equipment is invaluable, however, these actuators must be able to handle the high temperature and water pressure during washdowns. This article will cover the impor...
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DIY Adjustable Bed for Campervan Conversion
Adjustable beds are among the most highly sought-after bed solutions on the market since they have the flexibility of adjusting to many different configurations to maximize comfort, health benefits, and versatility. When converting their Ford Transit into a campervan, Ashleigh & Zach knew they wanted to keep the same benefits of adjustable beds to allow for the head and foot sections to rise separately. This was something they had never se...
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Tractor Front Loader Quick Release Locks by Chris Bolich
In agriculture, there are always new solutions being discovered and used to help boost efficiency and convenience, which ultimately helps improve productivity. This can bee seen through the examples of modifying tractors with upgrades that can enhance operation efficiency and user-friendliness. When changing a tractor from buckets to pallet forks, to grapples, the process can take up quite a lot of time when done manually. By adding modificati...
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Comparing Technologies: Optical Encoders VS Hall Effect Sensors
When properly implemented, positional feedback can allow multiple actuators to move together synchronously, use preset memory positions, and travel with higher accuracy and precision. Both optical encoders and hall effect sensors are popular for reading the positional feedback of a motor with good accuracy; however, each feedback option offers different benefits that can favor certain applications more than others. This article will compare th...
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DIY Automatic Chicken Coop Door by April Wilkerson
Raising chickens and having access to fresh eggs everyday is truly rewarding, however, there are a few challenges that come with having to keep an eye on the chickens and the coop every day. Although the chickens will go inside their chicken coop every evening on their own, manual coop doors will require users to remember every morning and every evening to coop and uncoop them. Proudly sponsored by Progressive Automations, we will cover how Ap...
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Furniture Actuators: Where To Find Them and How They Work
Linear actuators can be found in many different appliances and machinery, but one of the most prevalent uses we see them in is through automated smart furniture. In furniture making, they help with improving storage security, space optimization, and promoting ergonomic designs through proper posture. By allowing furniture to adjust into different configurations, furniture actuators can also introduce a stylish appearance to suit the ever-chang...
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Popular Applications That Benefit from Micro Linear Actuators
There are many applications with space and weight limitations that would require small and portable electric linear actuators to operate. In some cases, there may also be a need for these devices to have the additional feature of water resistance. The PA-07 Micro Linear Actuators are among the smallest actuators we offer for a compact form factor while also offering an IP66 water resistance rating and simple plug-and-play controls. In this art...
Actuator|article_time: 3.65|Automated|Control System|Electric|Featured|Home Automation|Linear Actuator|Microcontroller|Products|Project|Projects|related_heading: Micro Actuators: Popular Applications|robots
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Electric Reverse for Jet Ski using Linear Actuators
Jet skiing is a fun activity that many water sports enthusiasts enjoy and can introduce the opportunity to test out different models of jet skis on the market. Jet skis can come in a range of different shapes, sizes, and price points, with unique features to choose from. This is where some users could benefit from modifying and personalizing their jet skis according to their preferences while also enjoying the build process along the way. In t...
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Universal Lavatory Test Stand by RIT University
Using the bathroom is a common part of everyone’s day, however, users with mobility limitations, injuries, or disabilities may find the standard bathroom challenging to use. At most, standard bathrooms may occasionally come with railings or wider stalls, however, these are still not a complete solution for all users with mobility issues. The toilet height adjustability and accessibility are specific areas that larger public settings could impr...
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Hairdresser Robotic Arm Assistant by Joseph Dukes
Innovation is a crucial aspect of promoting growth in any business and a fresh customer experience. Besides drawing the interest of customers, innovative ideas can also offer other benefits such as improved operational efficiency, greater productivity, and better-quality service. The Hairdresser Robotic Arm Assistant known as ‘Maurice 2.0’ by Joseph Dukes is a perfect example of keeping things fresh and innovative! In this article, we will tak...
article_time: 5.50|related_heading: Hairdresser Robotic Arm Assistant
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How to Assemble and Use Our TY-05 Drop-Down TV Lifts
Having a TV lift can be useful for concealing and protecting a TV from unwanted scratches, dust, and accidental damage from pets or kids. The TV lift mechanism is also what allows for extra space saving by hiding your TV when it is no longer needed. Prior to the assembly of our TV lift, Chad from Broke OverLand had previously used our products for a Bed Lift System and Dinette Table for an LMTV camper which also helped him to save space in a s...
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Tracking Heliostats using Industrial Linear Actuators
Heliostats and solar panels are among the most notable devices found in the harvesting of solar power for renewable energy and reducing carbon footprint. While both technologies are used in solar energy systems, they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics which offer different benefits in certain conditions. This article will cover the important aspects of tracking heliostats using industrial linear actuators such as their ...
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Using Our Calculator Tool to Select Linear Actuators
Choosing suitable linear actuators to open a trapdoor application can be a tricky process, especially during the early stages of a new project. While it is possible to make estimations for how much force is needed and rough space requirements, using a calculator tool with a trapdoor simulator can truly improve the convenience of making adjustments to the initial design ideas. In this article, we will cover how to use our linear actuator calcul...
article_time: 5.8|related_heading: Actuator Calculator Tool
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The Difference Between Amps, Volts, and Watts for Actuators
The electrical industry has many different terms used to describe the ratings and requirements of electronic devices. For example, you may have seen a power supply label with a current rating of "20 A", an output voltage of "12 VDC", and a description indicating "240 W" in watts. Understanding the meaning behind these types of ratings is especially crucial to ensure proper operation and meet electrical safety requirements when integrating actu...
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Understanding The Precision and Accuracy of Linear Actuators
Nearly every mechanical application we encounter involves moving parts and components that have a certain level of precision and accuracy requirements to ensure proper operation. This is especially the case when it comes to equipment and machinery involving electric linear actuators. Factors such as backlash, build tolerance, mounting alignment, and application dynamics can greatly affect the precision and accuracy of linear motion systems usi...
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Meet the Team at Progressive Automations – Part Two
As previously covered in Part One of our two-part article, our hardworking team takes pride in what we do while also making sure to have fun during and outside work! This blog is the Part Two continuation of our Meet the Team article in which we introduce you to the people behind Progressive Automations, so you can learn more about who we are and what we do! While getting to know us better, you may even get some new hobby ideas and inspiration...
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How to Create a DIY Bar Cabinet with Hidden Storage
Making a DIY bar cabinet allows us to have a design, appearance, and storage configuration that is exactly to our personal preference. The integration of lifting mechanisms for hidden storage not only offers more security, but it also serves as a cool surprise factor for visitors. If you were thinking of building your own homemade DIY bar cabinet at an affordable cost, this article is just for you! We will be covering how April Wilkerson made ...
article_time: 8.65|related_heading: DIY Bar Cabinet
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Why is my DC motor whining at a lower PWM frequency?
Supplying PWM signals to the DC motor of an actuator is a common method for adjusting travel speed, however, some cases may result in acoustic noise through motor whining. At some point during the testing phase of your project, you may have noticed your same DC motor may generate motor whining at varying loudness when you connect it to different speed controller devices. This may be due to the different PWM frequencies that were set in each sp...
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How Ergonomic Workstations Benefit Packing and Assembly Lines
Employee well-being and proper ergonomics are just as important as following the safety standards in any workplace. Although the use of automation is growing in industrial production lines, many tasks still require manual intervention from workers. Because of this, an emphasis on ergonomic design for worker comfort and proper posture is crucial to reduce the high costs of worker injuries from excessive bending and heavy lifting while in awkwar...
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Fleur De LUX Giant Metallic Flower with Heavy Duty Actuators
Large-scale interactive sculptures are truly a work of art that can brighten anyone’s day, lift our spirits, and bring inspiration. Behind every large-scale masterpiece, there is a journey of a team working together to ensure a successful project for the community to enjoy. If you were looking for design inspirations and ideas for your next art project, this is just the article for you! We will be showcasing the Fleur De LUX giant metallic flo...
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Using Actuators on a Camping Trailer for Adventure Vehicles
Overlanding is an exciting way for people to explore remote trails and enjoy a memorable journey outdoors with their families. Adventure vehicles and trailers need to have a durable and well-thought-out configuration to ensure a family with safety, comfort, and shelter that can handle any outdoor conditions. If you were looking for project ideas and inspirations for your next camping adventures, this is just the article for you! We will be loo...
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Plasma Cutter Machine DIY Lift System using Lifting Columns
Plasma cutter machines are designed to efficiently handle our cutting tasks with incredible accuracy and precision; however, certain materials require more clearance height than others to make proper cuts. For example, tall steel tubing will require much more clearance height than one layer of sheet metal to fit underneath the cutting area of a plasma cutter machine. In this article, we will learn how one of our customers used lifting columns ...
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Using Linear Actuators in the European Mars Rover Challenge
Automated rovers are an advanced yet exciting technology for learning about our neighboring planets. Building a Rover for Mars can be a challenging task for any team, especially in the face of global uncertainties such as the pandemic. From supply chain issues and delayed shipments to limited communication and restricted in-person team interactions, team DJS Antariksh has proven that they can create a very successful Mars Rover while enduring ...
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DIY TV Lift Cabinet with Decorative Slats and A Moving Cover
Hidden TV cabinets are popular for home automation applications as they offer many different benefits for TVs such as TV protection, extra storage, and a stylish appearance. There are all sorts of ambient modes used by manufacturers to make TVs look better when not in use, however, custom made TV lift cabinets offer a new level of style to elevate the TV as the centerpiece of a room. If you were thinking of building your own homemade DIY TV li...
article_time: 8.5|related_heading: DIY TV Lift Cabinet
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Creating a Bed Lift System and Dinette Table for an LMTV camper
Outdoor camping is a fun and exciting activity that many of us enjoy, however, space constraints can make the process of bringing all our favorite luxuries quite challenging. This is where innovation and creativity can help us in building a comfortable yet space-efficient camping environment. If you were thinking of making projects similar to an RV dinette table or an RV bed lift system, this article is just for you! We will be covering how Ch...
article_time: 9.0|related_heading: Bed Lift and Dinette Table
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PA-10 Product Overview
Introducing the PA-10
An actuator may sometimes be used in applications that experience harsh environments such as saltwater, heavy rain, underwater submissions, or acidic/ corrosive substances. Due to these demanding requirements, it is best to find the right actuator with the proper ratings to handle these applications. In this product overview, we will be taking a look at the PA-10 actuator which has the highest Ingress Protection from our ...
Actuators|Linear Actuator|Products
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Popular Micro Precision Actuator Use Cases in Medical Devices
Every day, linear actuators in medical devices are making a global impact by saving lives as they continue to advance with our improving technologies. Aside from the versatility of linear actuators being available in many different sizes and force ratings, our technological advancements have also allowed for reliable accuracy and repeatability through micro precision servo actuators. In this article, we will cover the most popular use cases of...
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Meet the Team at Progressive Automations - Part One
Having a fun, passion-driven, and hardworking team is crucial for building a strong and sustainable company. You might have already noticed, but we absolutely love what we do here at Progressive Automations! Our team is full of people from various backgrounds and has a keen interest in bringing innovative ideas to the table. While working hard is a great trait to have, we like to enjoy ourselves too – at Progressive Automations, mixing work wi...
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Top 5 Ideas for DIY Halloween Decorations & Animatronics
Halloween projects are an excellent way of promoting fun and creativity for everyone to get into the festive mood! Whether you like dressing up in costumes, decorating your home, or just working on electronic projects, Halloween is a great time to express your creative side. If you needed some new ideas for your DIY Halloween decorations or just wanted some inspiration from other Halloween projects by our customers, this is just the article fo...
article_time: 3.62|related_heading: Halloween Decorations & Animatronics
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