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Flexar’s 12-layer PCB actuator is an enchanting gadget. Because the title implies, it’s a 12-layer printed circuit board with coil patterns on every layer. On this video, Carl Bugeja demonstrates 5 purposes for Flexar 12L.
The unique Flexar was a two-layer actuator product of the identical materials as “versatile PCBs.” Not like the two-layer model of the actuator, Flexar 12L isn’t versatile! Nonetheless, the title caught as a result of the precept of the 2 merchandise is identical.
Beforehand, we wrote a couple of collaboration between Utilized Procrastination and Carl Bugeja the place the 2 groups used Flexar 12L to elevate ferrofluid. Their outcomes weren’t very best, however they did obtain some success.
Unsurprisingly, that work left some folks questioning what else a 12-layer PCB-based actuator might do. To deal with that query, Bugeja introduces 5 potential purposes for the Flexar 12L:
- Linear actuator
- Electromagnetic
- Motor prototype
- Buzzer
- LC oscillator
Actuating Instance (📷: Carl Bugeja YouTube)
The primary two, actuator and electromagnetic, are the apparent makes use of for Flexar 12L. To exhibit the linear actuator, Bugeja designed some 3d printed items that actuate. The items resemble a plastic solenoid.
As seen within the ferrofluid collab, including a excessive permeability steel to the again of the 12L considerably will increase its magnetic area energy. The elevated energy is sufficient to elevate ferrofluid or light-weight steel items.
Not to remove from both of these achievements, the opposite purposes are, objectively, extra artistic. For instance, Bugeja constructed a single-phase induction motor utilizing six Flexar 12L models.
Motor Instance (📷: Carl Bugeja YouTube)
As an alternative choice to piezo buzzers, placing a magnetic right into a 3D printed diaphragm creates an “annoying Buzzer.” [His words, not ours!] Nonetheless, it does play the Tremendous Mario Bros theme moderately effectively.
Lastly, the actuator can detect steel if positioned into an LC oscillator circuit.
As an open supply design, the entire design recordsdata can be found. Within the Flexar GitHub Repo, you will discover challenge recordsdata (Altium), Gerbers, and 3D fashions for every of Flexar 12L’s 5 purposes.
The present value is just under 20 euros. The worth outcomes from the 12-layer PCB course of price and shopping for a restricted run. These elements must be thought-about a growth package and never a manufacturing part. Sooner or later, the value might come down.
“Transformer” Wirelessly Powering an LED (📷: Carl Bugeja YouTube)
For extra info, an in depth software information/datasheet, and to buy, go to the Flexar 12L product web page.
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