Consider this a test of the control layout, noise interference, and my sanity. Just kidding, I'm only lazy. I usually need to make some kind of custom breakout board for these projects, but I may just delve into PCB layout software to have them professionally made (solder traces are a total waste anyway). The modular bits, like the Arduino board I'm using, will stay as is, and basically become my cheap PC/104.
Early testing shows the clamp mechanism works. Despite the rod sleeves not yet attached, there was no binding during actuation like I was afraid of. Next, I'll attach the rest of the clamp end and see about securing the back end of the actuator. I may end up attaching more linkages to the forward section, but hopefully it won't come to that just yet.
