Actuator

An Actuator is a device component that converts energy into mechanical motion (enabling a system to move or control a mechanism).

• Context:
  • It can (typically) convert a Control Signal into Mechanical Motion.
  • It can (often) work in conjunction with Device Sensors and Device Controllers.
  • It can range from being an Electric Actuator, Hydraulic Fluid Actuator, or Pneumatic Actuator.
  • It can be used in Automated Machinery Applications.
  • It can range from Simple Actuator (e.g. in linear devices) to Complex Actuators (with multi-axis units).
  • …
• Example(s):
  • An Electric Motor in a robotic arm that enables it to move and perform tasks.
  • A Hydraulic Cylinder in a construction vehicle that allows for heavy lifting.
  • A Pneumatic Actuator used in factory automation for rapid, repetitive tasks.
  • A Thermal Actuator that expands or contracts in response to temperature changes.
  • …
• Counter-Example(s):
  • A Sensor, which detects changes in the environment rather than causing movement.
  • A Controller, which processes input signals and sends commands but does not execute physical movements.
  • A Passive Structural Component, such as a beam in a building, which supports loads but does not move or actuate.
  • …
• See: Control Systems, Automation, Robotics, Hydraulics, Pneumatics, Electromechanics, Pneumatic Motor, Machine Element, Force, Torque, Displacement (Geometry), Electrical, Pneumatics, Hydraulic Fluid, Input, System, Mechanical Energy, Transducer.

---

---

References

2023

• (Wikipedia, 2023) ⇒ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Actuator Retrieved:2023-11-13.
  • An actuator is a component of a machine that produces force, torque, or displacement, usually in a controlled way, when an electrical, pneumatic or hydraulic input is supplied to it in a system (called an actuating system). An actuator converts such an input signal into the required form of mechanical energy. It is a type of transducer. In simple terms, it is a "mover". An actuator requires a control device (controlled by control signal) and a source of energy. The control signal is relatively low energy and may be electric voltage or current, pneumatic, or hydraulic fluid pressure, or even human power. In the electric, hydraulic, and pneumatic sense, it is a form of automation or automatic control. The displacement achieved is commonly linear or rotational, as exemplified by linear motors and rotary motors, respectively. Rotary motion is more natural for small machines making large displacements. By means of a leadscrew, rotary motion can be adapted to function as a linear actuator (a linear motion, but not a linear motor). Another broad classification of actuators separates them into two types: incremental-drive actuators and continuous-drive actuators. Stepper motors are one type of incremental-drive actuators. Examples of continuous-drive actuators include DC torque motors, induction motors, hydraulic and pneumatic motors, and piston-cylinder drives (rams).

---