I need help with a very simple "wench type" roboti

[bellonart]

I'm an art student, and I'm experimenting with an idea for a sculpture that has some moving parts. What I need is several programmed "wenches" to pull some light weighted objects up and down from a pulley system. I have someone to help me with the programming aspect, but i'm totally lost on where to get parts. Does anyone have any expertise in this, or can point me in the right direction?

I need them to be able to lift at least 5-8 lbs and they need to be 100% programmable... I can't have anything moving too fast as the objects could start swinging and knock into something and break.

Thank you for your time!

~Bellonart

[UncleBob]

For that weight, I think you need a linear actuator instead of a servo.

You can purchase linear actuator from the robot store. Search around.

Or you can make your own linear actuator from servos you see on this site. Just search around on youtube.

[limor]

I concur that servos and motors should be an easier choice.
Check out this controller board called Dagu Wild Thumper Arduino
http://robosavvy.com/store/product_info ... ts_id/1168

It can actuate servos at different voltages and high current motors.
Supports a friendly and popular Arduino development environment.