Using Pneumatic Stays to Lift Canopy

[mike550]

Hello! I have a wood canopy that opens / closes like a clamshell (top half pivots open while bottom stays on the tank). It's a very simple design and it uses wooden "legs" to prop open the top. I am thinking of adding pneumatic spring stays to assist with the lift -- and possibly hold the top half of the lid up.

Does anyone have advice / experience with these stays? Of course I'm always open to better ideas!

Thanks in advance.

 

[rgulrich]

Well, if you'd like to mechanize the whole process, I'd recommend linear actuators. They'd handle the load with no issues, but would be more expensive than the hydraulic stays.
Cheers,
Ray

 

[mike550]

Well, if you'd like to mechanize the whole process, I'd recommend linear actuators. They'd handle the load with no issues, but would be more expensive than the hydraulic stays.
Cheers,
Ray

I honestly hadn't thought about that -- I was trying to keep it simple. That said, the lid is roughly 24"x48" and I couldn't secure one actuator in the middle. If I put one on each side, do you think they would stay in sync?

 

[rgulrich]

I think they would, if you use one of these synchronous control boards with a recommended feedback actuator:
https://www.firgelliauto.com/products/synchronous-control-board?variant=31598239252551I used the Optical Feedback linear actuators for my project.
I use a four channel control board along with a remote control to manage the four actuators in my lift:

I couldn't have done this without the gear. I could also lift my Harley with the combined lifting power of these four actuators...
Let me know if you have any questions.
Cheers,
Ray

 

[rwreef]

How do you deal/prevent rust? In my experience anything metal near saltwater rust. Using marine grade SS? Or aluminum? Just curious as I will be using a canopy in my new build.

 

[rgulrich]

When I had a canopy I routinely wiped down (read: once every week or so) the metal surfaces with a damp (not wet) cloth. You can also wipe down with silicone or some such if desired. Since I've installed the "floating light rack", it really hasn't been a problem at all.
The framing in the rack is aluminum, the actuators are (mostly) likewise, except for a few parts. Some of the fittings and mounts are steel, but corrosion hasn't been an issue with their location. All of the electronics are well away from the water and/or protected as best as possible.
It should always be on the checklist of things to pay attention to, as well.
Cheers,
Ray :cool:

 

[mike550]

@rgulrich I looked at the actuators and the retracted length for the power I need and the actuators are too long. Thanks for the idea though!

If I ever rebuild my stand I’ll definitely keep these in mind.