Zip Chain Actuator (2021)

DESCRIPTION

This project was based upon the “Zip-chain actuator concept”, a niche mechanism seldom used in raised platform vehicles and other applications requiring compact linear actuation. Based on an old naval design used for loading breach-loader artillery, the zip chain actuator intermeshes two flexible “chains” in a manner reminiscent fabric zippers to form a solid column, rigid in all planes. This allows for extremely compact packaging for its linear actuation length when compared to other linear mechanisms like linear servos and rack and pinion extension.

AIM

This was project developed of the summer for the First Robotics Competition. While designing the robot for the 2021 season, we came across the need for an extremely compact mechanism capable of etending 1.6m. I created the zip chain design to address this problem and create a unique yet effective solution for the requirements