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Extending Servo Wire
I need to make a servo wire that extends approximately 4 feet and then retracts to a length of 18 inches or less. There is a risk of entanglement, so the less sag and less loose the wire, the better. One option would be to use coiled wire of the appropriate gauge, but a product such as this is expensive. What are some other options?
One idea that I had was to build a wire spool mechanism like that of a tape measure. From what I understand, a tape measure uses a constant force spring to somehow apply a retractive force to the actual measuring tape. Can anyone provide a more clear explanation of how a tape measure retracts? Does anyone have any ideas of how to implement this into a wire spool?
Other ideas on retracting a very long wire?
Thanks
Comments
3 years ago
You could consider using CAT5e cable, it has 8 cores in twisted pairs and cheap retractable versions are available off-the-shelf:
http://cpc.farnell.com/pro-signal/psg90789/cable-r...
Answer 3 years ago
your link isn't working.
Answer 3 years ago
in face isn't a link (URL at all)
3 years ago
Something like and extendable key chain (search amazon) has the mechanism you want
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Heavy-duty-Retractable-Ch...
I have a mouse that works the same way - Only to about 1 mtr though.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sabrent-Travel-Optical-Re...
3 years ago
I can't speak to the idea of a spool mechanism, but have you considered turning straight wire into coiled wire? https://www.instructables.com/id/Make-Coiled-Wire/
Answer 3 years ago
When do you think i can get off of the DNPP list = Do Not Post Pics list ?
Or be able to delete my vengeful comments ?
Answer 3 years ago
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Answer 3 years ago
I cannot post the picture but you can look at it here \/
https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&c...