Converting potential energy into mechanical energy is a hot field of study in science. Actuators are the devices that scientists study that convert different forms of energy into mechanical energy or motion. Not only are actuators a hot topic of study in robotics, but they also have benefits in medicine as well. Scientists believe that the more they can improve on actuators, the more it will benefit all of mankind.
Actuators are amazingly simple devices. The way an actuator works is that a motor rotates a drive screw using a timing belt, worm gear drive, or direct drive. As the screw turns, it pushes a drive nut along the screw which pushes a rod out. If the screw turns in the opposite direction, the rod will retract. There is a cover over the screw which protects it from the environment. The drive screw is usually a ACME or ball thread and is usually belt driven which allows the machine to convert the motion of rotation into in and out energy. There are radial thrust bearings which allow the screw to rotate freely under loaded conditions.
Advanced motion control systems use actuators. Control systems are devices used to move or control objects and are found everywhere. These computer controlled systems are made possible by advancements in actuators.
There are various forms of energy that run actuators. These forms of energy include, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical and electrical. Linear actuators are used a lot in robotics and factory automation.
The type of actuator used depends on the need of motion. Linear actuators are used when an object needs to move in a straight line. Also, one needs to consider the stroke length (how far one rotation moves an object) and the load rating (how heavy the object that is being moved can be). Also, you probably want to get an actuator that can be programmed. One of the biggest things people over look when buying an actuator is space requirements. Make sure your project includes enough space for the actuator. Certain hackable robots will automatically include expanded space for various size actuators.
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