Types of Actuators:
– Soft actuator changes shape in response to stimuli
– Hydraulic actuator uses hydraulic power for mechanical operation
– Pneumatic actuator produces forces from small pressure changes
– Electric actuators include electromechanical and electrohydraulic types
– Linear motors convert electric energy into linear force
Soft Actuator:
– Adapts to stimuli like mechanical, thermal, magnetic, and electrical
– Mainly used in robotics for safety and healthcare applications
– Utilizes flexible materials like polymers and harmless liquids
– Able to disassemble parts to adapt to environments
– Driven energy comes from flexible materials
Hydraulic Actuator:
– Uses hydraulic power for mechanical motion
– Provides linear, rotatory, or oscillatory motion output
– Exerts large force due to liquids being nearly incompressible
– Includes single and double acting cylinder configurations
– Limited acceleration is a drawback of hydraulic actuators
Pneumatic Actuator:
– Produces considerable forces from small pressure changes
– Quick response in starting and stopping operations
– Cheaper and more powerful than other actuators
– High force available in a relatively small volume
– Energy inefficient due to the need for a compressed air network
Electric Actuator:
– Includes electromechanical and electrohydraulic actuator types
– Electromechanical actuators convert rotary motion into linear movement
– Electrohydraulic actuators use electric motor to operate a hydraulic accumulator
– Linear motors provide high speed, control, and accuracy
– Linear motor technology is suitable for low load applications
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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).
