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Post by Murdoch on Aug 11, 2015 21:39:42 GMT
I am working on something that needs a locking system. I was wondering if I could use a 5v small linear solenoid to achieve this.  Now my question is if I can use this, is it possible to activate it using a switch. Weather it is a button or a sensor switch. Thanks in advance...GM |
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Post by Honus on Aug 19, 2015 18:39:04 GMT
That will definitely work and it's easy to use. I have a small solenoid just like that that I'm using for a project. That solenoid will stay extended until you give it power and then it will retract as long as power is applied. You can turn it on with a switch or use it with a sensor and microcontroller. With a microcontroller (Arduino or similar) you would use a transistor to turn it on. I can make you a diagram if you like.
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Post by Murdoch on Aug 23, 2015 22:52:04 GMT
That would be awesome, I'd love a diagram. Thanks for the offer...GM
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Post by Honus on Aug 25, 2015 19:46:01 GMT
I'll make you a diagram after I get home from work tonight. Sorry for the delay- been working on plumbing at the house!
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Post by Honus on Aug 26, 2015 18:31:25 GMT
Here you go. This is the easiest way you can do this with a microcontroller. You can use several different transistors to do this- just make sure the transistor can handle the solenoid current requirement. The drawing shows two transistors but you could also use a TIP120 or a N-channel MOSFET like this one- www.adafruit.com/products/355With a MOSFET you don't need the 1K Ohm resistor. You do need to pay attention to the duty cycle of the solenoid as they are not meant to always be powered on continuously.  |
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Post by Murdoch on Aug 27, 2015 0:12:36 GMT
This is great stuff Jerome. Working on the boot right now. I will post pics once it's complete...GM
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Post by propmaster2000 on Apr 27, 2017 12:35:09 GMT
Hi Murdoch,
The 5vdc solenoid you have is considered a push type, where the pin comes out during
activation (even though the product page indicates it's a pull type).
Here is a link to a video showing that particular solenoid in use.
As Honus mentioned, it is not for continuous duty (where the pin is locking your device during
power up).
You may need a "pull type", where the pin is protruding, locking your device with no power needed.
Not sure of your usage, but a "pull type" may work the best to pull the pin to open your
item.
Then when power is removed and the pin returns to the locked position due to the shaft spring action.
.
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