DIY projects with linear electric actuators: from furniture to hidden compartments
Hey everyone, I’ve been thinking about upgrading some of my furniture at home with a bit of automation. I’m considering hidden compartments in my living room table or maybe even a motorized drawer in my workshop. I’ve seen linear actuators used in desks, but I’m not sure how to adapt them for smaller DIY projects. Has anyone tried adding actuators to furniture or custom storage, and what worked well for you?
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I’ve actually done a couple of DIY builds with a linear electric actuator https://www.progressiveautomations.ca/collections/linear-actuators. One was a lift-top coffee table with a hidden storage area, and it turned out great—the actuator is smooth and strong enough to handle the weight of the tabletop. I also made a small pull-out shelf in my workshop that lifts tools up when I need them. The key is matching the actuator’s stroke and load capacity to whatever you’re moving and making sure the frame is sturdy enough.