Actuators in Mechatronic Systems
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following statements about actuator systems is correct?

  • Actuator systems only interface with sensors.
  • Actuator systems can include both fluid and mechanical components. (correct)
  • Actuator systems solely rely on electrical energy.
  • Actuator systems do not require a power supply.
  • What is a characteristic of Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) used in actuator systems?

  • They return to a predefined shape after exposure to temperature changes. (correct)
  • They can only be used at room temperature.
  • They are always efficient energy converters.
  • They have a low force to weight ratio.
  • Which of the following options is NOT a type of actuator mentioned?

  • Pneumatic actuators
  • Electro-magnetic actuators
  • Hydraulic actuators
  • Optical actuators (correct)
  • What type of actuation do dielectric electro-active polymers (EAPs) rely on?

    <p>Electrostatic forces</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which property of Magneto-Rheological fluids can be controlled by varying the magnetic field intensity?

    <p>Yield stress</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant drawback of using Shape Memory Alloy actuators?

    <p>They convert thermal energy into work with low efficiency.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect of actuator systems does a power amplifier regulate?

    <p>The energy supply to the actuator.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a disadvantage of using Electro-Rheological (ER) fluids?

    <p>Requires convoluted flow paths</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key characteristic of ionic electro-active polymers (EAPs)?

    <p>Requires only a few volts but higher electrical power</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What main application is associated with Magneto-Rheological fluids?

    <p>Vehicle shock absorbers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one primary advantage of piezoelectric actuators?

    <p>They provide large forces and high speeds.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most common material used in piezoelectric applications for timekeeping?

    <p>Quartz</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant disadvantage of solenoids?

    <p>They can cause magnetic interference.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are fluid systems still relevant despite the shift to electric systems?

    <p>They have high power density and safety in explosive environments.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What limitation is associated with hydraulic fluids in fluid systems?

    <p>They are prone to leaks and conversion loss.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What key characteristic differentiates solenoids from other actuation systems?

    <p>They use magnetic fields for linear actuation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes a primary disadvantage of using fluid systems?

    <p>They require regular maintenance due to potential leaks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way can energy be stored for short-duration pulses in fluid systems?

    <p>By pumping water to a high-level tank for release.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Course Information

    • Course title: Interfacing for Mechatronic Systems
    • Course code: WSC353
    • Lecturers: Dr Gianfranco Claudio & Dr Tim Harrison
    • University: Loughborough University

    Lecture Plan

    • Sensors (1): October 31st, 14:00
    • Sensors (2): November 7th, 14:00
    • Strain Gauges, Charge Amplifiers, Sensor Networks & Relays: November 14th, 14:00
    • Actuators (1): November 21st, 14:00
    • Actuators (2): November 28th, 14:00
    • Thermal and Noise considerations: December 5th, 14:00
    • Some practical examples: December 12th, 14:00

    ###Learning Outcomes

    • Understand the different types of actuators.
    • Understand how actuators work.
    • Understand how to interface with actuators.
    • Understand the advantages and limitations of actuators.

    Overview (Diagram)

    • Diagram of actuation process involving microcontroller, analogue conversion, filtering, gliching, amplifier, actuator, linkage, and environment.

    Why Study Actuators?

    • Actuators are equally important as sensors.
    • Many techniques and information apply to actuators as they do sensors.
    • Understanding voltage vs. current sensor/actuator networks.
    • Understanding DAC/ADC.
    • Recognizing noise aspects.

    Overview (Actuation System)

    • Shows a simple block diagram of an actuator system.
    • Includes energy source, power supply, power amplifier, actuator, and to physical system connections.
    • Different components of a mechanical system

    Types of Actuator Systems

    • Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs): metal alloys that revert to their original shape. Nickel-Titanium (Ni-Ti) is a common type with high force-to-weight ratio but low efficiency.
    • Rheological Fluids: materials that change their properties with an external field (e.g. electric, magnetic). Electro-Rheological (ER) fluids: use electric fields and can be very fast acting and direct. A polymer suspended in a silicone fluid. High electric fields required. Magnet-Rheological (MR) fluids: use magnetic fields and are heavy, and easily degraded.
    • Electro-active polymers (EAPs): are modified by voltage; 2 types (dielectric and ionic).
    • Piezoelectric: voltage creates a mechanical effect; materials and actuators widely available (square, rectangular, ring shape).
    • Solenoids: Actuate linearly; Simple and robust, large variation of size/force; Not fully variable.
    • Fluid Systems: Hydraulics and pneumatics. Often used for situations with large power requirements.

    Fluid Systems - Advantages and Disadvantages

    • Advantages: High power density, safety in explosive environments, Less susceptible to electrical interference, useful when electrical supply is not available.
    • Disadvantages: Leaks, loss of efficiency, not as quick as electric systems.

    Working Fluids

    • Water is rarely used today but was historically important.
    • Oil is generally preferred for hydraulics and can be used at high pressures and has a good temperature range, but needs to be non-toxic.
    • Air has numerous applications in pneumatics and easier to store and maintain.

    Fluid Systems (Components)

    • Diagram of systems showing components like pump, valve, cylinder, and reservoir.
    • Various types of pumps, valves, and cylinders are illustrated, with specifics like piston pumps, gear pumps, swashplate pumps, and different valves based on action methods (poppet or spool). Pneumatic and hydraulic systems.

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    Description

    This quiz focuses on understanding different types of actuators, their workings, and interfacing techniques in mechatronic systems. Participants will explore practical examples and gain insights into the advantages and limitations of actuators. Ideal for students of Interfacing for Mechatronic Systems.

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