Enhanced safety and flexibility for the Munich People’s Theater with the MINI Actuator

The MINI Actuator secures the stage and fixes it in a defined position

Philipp Schmalzhaf - Sales Manager - GROB Antriebstechnik GmbH

by Philipp Schmalzhaf, Sales Manager

Linear chain used in theater stages - GROB Drive Technology

The MINI Actuator in the World of Theater

Linear actuators play a pivotal role as technical and safety-related innovations in the world of theater and musicals. A notable example of this is the MINI Actuator used in the stage technology of the renowned People's Theater in Munich. In this blog article, we take a closer look at the application and technology of the MINI Actuators.

How the MINI Actuator works

MINI Actuators consist of a combination of spindles and electric motors. With this drive type, we rely on a spindle nut made of PAN-bronze to maximize the MINI Actuator's lifespan. Additionally, limit switches are integrated into the MINI Cylinder to ensure timely shutdown at the end position. The major advantage of the MINI Actuator is its reduced installation space due to its integrated hollow shaft motor. This makes the MINI Actuator a true powerhouse. By combining these features, we can guarantee a powerful and quiet operation, ensuring maximum safety and an undisturbed theater experience.

MINI - GROB Drive Technology GmbH

Let's talk about the technical details of the MINI Actuators at the Munich Theater

How many MINI Actuators do you estimate are used in the Munich Volkstheater? 54 MINI Actuators are deployed to secure the stage platform. Specifically, by turning the spindle, a locking bolt is inserted into the stage element to lock the stage in its position. Due to the precise control of the drives, synchronous locking of the stage is enabled. The drives comply with the highest safety standards and are regularly maintained and inspected to ensure smooth and safe operation.

So quiet, they're barely audible

Two key reasons were decisive in the Munich People Theater's choice of the MINI Actuator from GROB Antriebstechnik GmbH.

  1. The low noise level of the MINI Cylinder
  2. The calculated proof of a minimum lifespan of 400 hours under dynamic load of 140 N according to DIN 56950.

Here's an overview of the technical data of the MINI Actuators used:

Size:
MINI 0
Voltage (V):
1x230 AC
Frequency (Hz):
50
Speed (n1) rpm -1:
1,200
Power (kW):
0.03
Duty Cycle
15
Motor thermal protection:
Bimetal
Protection rating (IP):
54
Current (A):
0.6
Stroke (mm):
60
Transmission:
3.9:1
Stroke speed (mm/s):
15
Adjustment force (N):
600
Lubricant:
Klübersynth G34-130
Option 1:
Capacitor 5 µF
Option 2:
Brake 24V
Option 3:
Adjustment ring set to 60 mm stroke (form-fitting)
Option 4:
Limit switch led out (1-4)
Standard version:
With fixed connection head
"
With integrated limit switches
Piston rod:
Nirosta 1.4301
Spindle nut:
Made of PAN-bronze

Innovation potential and applications

The use of MINI Actuators at the Munich People's Theater showcases the innovation potential of this technology in stage technology. Besides theaters, you can find MINI Actuators in other theater productions, concerts, and events. Their flexibility and precision offer directors and stage designers entirely new possibilities in the design of stage elements without compromising safety.

Engineers and designers worldwide in mechanical engineering and industry rely on MINI Actuators as proven and reliable drive solutions for decades.

What you should know about us

With decades of experience in drive technology manufacturing and a strong focus on innovation and quality, we take pride in offering our customers the best solutions. Contact us today to discuss potential applications of the MINI Actuator for your needs or to receive a non-binding quote for the MINI Cylinder.

By the way, in our product portfolio, you'll find these products with which we develop solutions for linear drive technology: Screw Jacks, Screw Drives, Electric Cylinders, and more.

Learn more technical details about the MINI Actuator here.

FAQs about MINI Actuators

  1. Fully made of stainless steel
  2. Protection rating up to IP65
  3. Very compact due to hollow shaft motor

MINI 0 (1,000N), MINI 01 (1,600N), MINI 1 (3,500N), MINI 2 (14,000N), MINI 3 (26,000N)

Through a spring assembly, a defined force can be combined via the spring constant. When the spring assembly is compressed, a limit switch sends back the signal. Advantage: The limit switch can also be adjusted in position, allowing the customer to precisely adjust their force point.

You can choose between 24V, 230V, and 400V.

Yes, the use of stainless steel materials is a common practice for environments with aggressive media.

Yes, Screw Jacks and MINI Cylinders can be used within certain limits for ATEX zones as well.

Check the power supply. For 24V DC drives, fluctuating loads can also cause varying speeds. Additionally, ensure that potentiometers, encoders, and brakes are correctly controlled.

No, the MINI Cylinders are complete systems and cannot be expanded with other motors.

For the spindle end, the standard range offers options including threaded end, articulated head, ball joint head, flange plate, bearing flange plate, and pin. You can find corresponding dimensions in the General Catalog 2023 (grob-antriebstechnik.de)

Question not included?

You can find more application examples and drive solutions here

Waterproof MINI actuator in the jungle - GROB Drive Technology

What is a MINI Actuator?

Discover the fascinating world of MINI Cylinders! In our informative article for beginners, you'll learn how these compact drives work and what basic features distinguish them. Dive in and understand why the MINI Actuator is an innovative solution for various applications.

Learn more

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Philipp Schmalzhaf - Sales Manager - GROB Antriebstechnik GmbH

Philipp Schmalzhaf, Sales Manager