2021-08-29, 01:40 PM
Any unit you can backdrive means it has lower friction and thus higher efficiency. If this is the case, then they do need a brake (reverse clutch) to fully realize this potential so they can hold position which pypilot does not really fully support. This would complicate things but the efficiency gains of ball screws are potentially large.
Electric motors are most efficient with lighter loads that only reduce free running speed by 10% or so. So this "hurd" actuator may well be more efficient at much lighter loads? Did you try 3 or 5kg? It seems strange that it cannot even move half its rating (Unless it expects 24 volts or something), but in general ball screws are significantly more efficient but would need software support and a brake to fully realize it, especially if there is significant weather helm.
Electric motors are most efficient with lighter loads that only reduce free running speed by 10% or so. So this "hurd" actuator may well be more efficient at much lighter loads? Did you try 3 or 5kg? It seems strange that it cannot even move half its rating (Unless it expects 24 volts or something), but in general ball screws are significantly more efficient but would need software support and a brake to fully realize it, especially if there is significant weather helm.