Compact linear actuator and method of making same

A linear motor actuator comprising:

• a piston assembly comprising a shaft connected to a shaft housing at an interface region and a bobbin connected to the shaft housing and having a central axis approximately collinear with the shaft;
• an actuator housing adapted to receive the piston assembly, wherein the actuator housing comprises a guide adapted to prevent the shaft from rotating;
• and
• a detachable magnet housing adapted to connect to the actuator housing and comprising one or more magnets for actuating the piston assembly.

A method of assembling a linear motor actuator for driving a piston with a reduced lateral force, the method comprising:

• providing a piston assembly comprising a shaft and a bobbin, wherein the central axis of the bobbin is approximately collinear with the shaft;
• inserting at least a portion of the piston assembly within an actuator housing, wherein the actuator housing comprises a guide adapted to receive the shaft;
• and
• connecting a magnet housing to the actuator housing, wherein the magnet housing comprises one or more magnets adapted to drive the piston assembly.