Actuator definition

What is the function of the actuator? In simple terms, it is a mover. Actuators may be based on hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, thermal or mechanical means, but are increasingly being driven by software. An actuator requires a control signal and a source of energy.

Actuators can be categorized by the energy source they require to generate motion.

A motion-generating device driven by an electroactive polymer, which moves in response to electricity. A valve actuator is the mechanism for opening and closing a valve. Manually operated valves require someone in attendance to adjust them using a direct or geared mechanism attached to the valve stem. Actuators synonyms, Actuators pronunciation, Actuators translation, English dictionary definition of Actuators.

Definition of actuator : Electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic device (such as a relay) that controls the flow of material or power. Also called actuation device. Actuators fall into two categories with respect to how they mount in the tool: in-plate and bolt-on.

Bolt-on actuators allow the hot runner to be supplied to the mold maker as a preassembled and tested drop-in system, complete with hydraulic disconnects, so that no plumbing is necessary during installation.

The mechanism that moves the head assembly on a disk drive. That motion can be in virtually any form, such as blocking, clamping or ejecting. A cylinder or fluid motor that converts hydraulic power into useful mechanical work. Operation exhibits high force capability, high power per unit weight and volume, good mechanical stiffness, and high dynamic response.

Actuators are widely used in manufacturing of motors, pumps, switches, and valves for on and off control, to control pressure, and to regulate flow. In typical application of the ball valve, control valve, and choke valve, there are two types of actuator that is use the spring return (or single acting) actuator and the double acting actuator. The spring return actuator is the actuator that used spring force to place the valve position in close or open position. Power-operated actuators, using gas pressure, hydraulic pressure or electricity, allow a valve to be adjusted remotely, or allow rapid operation of large valves. Computer Definition A mechanism that causes a device to be turned on or off, adjusted or moved.

The motor and mechanism that moves the head assembly on a disk drive or an arm of a robot is called an actuator. It is operated by a source of energy, typically electric current, hydraulic fluid pressure, or pneumatic pressure, and converts that energy into motion. In the past, the actuator within a hard drive was controlled by a stepper motor.

However, today the actuator is often controlled by a servo motor. Typically, a power source like an electric motor is connected to a simple machine, often a screw. In other words, it receives control input (generally in the form of the electrical signal) and generates a change in the physical system through producing force, heat, motion, etcetera.

It also can be used to apply a force.

Hydraulic actuators or hydraulic cylinders typically involve a hollow cylinder having a piston inserted in it. An unbalanced pressure applied to the piston provides force that can move an external object. Since liquids are nearly incompressible, a hydraulic cylinder can provide controlled precise linear displacement of the piston. Like any mechanical device, a blend door actuator will eventually fail. Replacement parts to fix the problem may be as little as a few dollars, but the labor charges to replace it may go into the hundreds.

This is due to the actuator being buried within the heat and air assembly behind the dashboard.