Motorized light bar lift plans?

[Raoul5Duke]

I am interested in building something similar to what is in this video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zcAv4UKo6Bg

Does anyone know of any threads that have details on how to do this? I know you can get the actuators at Firgelli but I am unsure exactly how to figure out what parts I need.

 

[slief]

Here are some threads on the subject. You will need the aluminum extrusions for your light rack. T-Slot is what many use. You can get that from 8020.net

You will need steel wire rope. You can find that online by googling it. You will also need pullyys. I would suggest heavy duty stainless ones designed for the diameter wire rope you choose. You can google block and tackle or pulley to find different pulley's. Be sure their weight rating meets the weight of your light rack and lights.

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1914175

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1496848

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2293322&page=3

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1325545

http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=28436&page=10

 

[Raoul5Duke]

Thanks for the links. Will do some more research.

 

[sfsuphysics]

Check out tnutz.com for extruded aluminum, they seem to be a bit cheaper than 8020.net especially when it comes to the connectors (which will cost the same as the aluminum if not more).

Looking at the video I see a linear actuator and a series of pulleys, so pretty straight forward on the design. I'd save a few bucks myself and simply put a pull cord with a couple pulleys (depending upon the weight of your lights). But I know not as flashy