Types of Actuators
Electrical
Ac and dc motors Stepper motors solenoids
Hydraulic
Use hydraulic fluid to actuate motion Use compressed air to actuate motion
Pneumatic
All three types of actuators are in use today Electric actuators are the type most commonly used Hydraulic and pneumatic systems allow for increased force and torque from smaller motor There are some dual function actuators
Where Used
Pneumatic actuators are used for lower cost and lower precision applications
high force-density, precise control, and long operating life Thrusts from 500 to 32,000 pounds force @ 2,500 psi Stroke lengths ranging from fractions of an inch to 40 inches Can provide up to 448,000 lb.ins torque, and are typically used as valve actuators in the rotary actuator format linear actuator travel is from 0.005 to 6 inches per second Resolution can be as fine as 0.002 inches accuracy with 100% repeatability
M125 Actuato r Diamete r Weight Stroke Force Rod End 2" of 1/2" 20 UNF 2A Thread Motor 12 VDC operatin g Range 360 degree Price
2.625
16 lbs
4"
1600lb
$745
Marvin Minsky developed the Tentacle Arm, which moved like an octopus. It had twelve joints designed to reach around obstacles. A PDP-6 computer controlled the arm, powered by hydraulic fluids. Mounted on a wall, it could lift the weight of a person
Supporting Equipment
Encoder
Standards
Summary