A multisensory linear actuator system

Presents a very compact multisensory linear actuator system. The key element of this linear actuator system is the DLR patented planetary roller spindle drive (PRSD(R)). With a volume of 50 /spl times/ 50 /spl times/ 104 mm (length /spl times/ width /spl times/ height), it can output more than 100 kg force and achieve a displacement of 50 mm with a resolution of 2 /spl mu/m. A compact microcontroller-based stand-alone system enables the actuator to only need three cables for RS232 and five cables for RS422 serial communication with any commercial PC, in addition to two cables for power supply.