TheSamba.com :: View topic - Need your tech minds pulled together for a non VW minute :)

Mon Nov 17, 2008 6:36 pm

Ok this ain't Thing or VW related but I know you all are very technical and mechanical minded ;)

This is a co2 for a single person life boat. I want to pop it remotely with a wireless remote control. Question is what can I use to press the button. I don't know how many pounds it will take to pop it but I imagine less than 50lbs. Here are a few pictures. Some options I've looked into are using a linear actuator or solenoid. Now having the safety cap on does 2 things. Protects from accidental pressing but also acts as a pully, reducing the energy needed to press the button, If I'm correct in my thinking. Also I think the button does not need to be held down, just pressed. I can't really test the button, I have looked for a engineers data sheet, but this co2 tank is Vietnam era. Ideally I'd like to use a spare 8.4 volt remote control type battery I have lying around. There are cheap 2 channel remote control kits (think car alarm remotes) on ebay. Any other ideas :) I might have to visit a pinball factory, get their opinions as well.

Thanks

Chris

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Mon Nov 17, 2008 10:41 pm

I would use a car alarm, with the remote door lock feature. Runs on 12 volts, and there are lot's of actuators to choose from for pressing discharging the Co2.

Mon Nov 17, 2008 11:23 pm

I'm not even going to ask. That way when the FBI, CIA and/or Secret Service come knocking on my door I can do my best Sgt. Schultz impersonation with a clear conscience.

"I know nothink, NOOOTHINK!"

Tue Nov 18, 2008 1:12 am

Fine to ask, but I bet a robot / BattleBot forum would be helpful.
http://www.societyofrobots.com/actuators_solenoids.shtml