// ROBOTICS AND SMART FACTORIES TERM
Actuator
An actuator is a mechanical device that converts energy, often electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic, into mechanical motion. It's what makes things move in automated systems, like opening a valve or moving a robotic arm.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
An actuator is a mechanical device in industrial automation that converts a control signal and energy (electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic) into physical motion, force, or torque, enabling the manipulation of mechanisms like valves, robotic joints, or clamping devices within a control system.
BACKGROUND
An actuator is a component of a machine that produces force, torque, or displacement, when an electrical, pneumatic or hydraulic input is supplied to it in a system. The effect is usually produced in a controlled way. An actuator translates a stimulus such as an input signal into the required form of mechanical energy. It is a type of transducer. In simple terms, it is a "mover".
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Motor
- servo
- solenoid
- piston
- drive
- transducer
USAGE NOTE
Actuators are critical components in robotics and automated machinery, translating control signals into physical actions.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Actuator.
A global leader in the development and manufacturing of pneumatic and electric actuators, essential components for industrial automation, robotics, and manufacturing processes within Industry 5.0.
Specializes in pneumatic and electric drive technology, offering a wide range of actuators, including smart and networked solutions, crucial for advanced industrial automation and smart factories.
Provides comprehensive solutions in drive and control technology, including electric, hydraulic, and pneumatic actuators for machinery automation, handling systems, and production lines in modern manufacturing.
A global manufacturer of motion and control technologies, offering a vast array of hydraulic, pneumatic, and electromechanical actuators used across diverse industrial applications, including manufacturing automation.
Known for high-precision drive systems, including DC motors and geared motors that form the core of compact, high-performance actuators used in robotics, medical technology, and advanced industrial applications.
Specializes in highly precise servo actuators and gearheads, which are critical components for industrial robots, collaborative robots (cobots), and other high-accuracy motion control systems in manufacturing.
Develops and manufactures 'motion plastics' products, including lubrication-free plastic linear actuators, electric cylinders, and linear guides that offer lightweight, maintenance-free, and cost-effective solutions for various industrial automation tasks.
A major player in industrial automation, integrating and developing advanced actuators as key components within their broader digital factory and automation solutions, supporting efficient and intelligent manufacturing processes.
Offers a wide selection of AC and DC motors, gearheads, and linear actuators, including electric cylinders and compact linear slides, widely used for precise positioning and motion control in manufacturing equipment.