Actuators, Part II

Fred DonelsonKevin McKone

A second actuator that is often used is known as a solenoid

It moves a rod by electromagnetic energy

Click on the link below to learn the basics on how a solenoid works:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=endscreen&NR=1&v=hsoggQOoG4s

Finally, we sometimes use the pressure of fluids to move objects

When we use a gas as the fluid, we call it a pneumatics system

When we use liquid as the fluid, we

call it a hydraulics

system

Comparing Electrical and Fluid Actuators

A simple hydraulic system can be made out of syringes and aquarium tubing

A simple ROV with a hydraulic actuator

Click the two links below to see some simple but effective hydraulic systems in action:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFje0G69ku8&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=endscreen&v=vsF95qA1x7I&NR=1

For ideas on building a linear actuator with a motor and some

PVC, check out this link:

http://blog.davidjbarnes.com/2009/03/making-linear-actuator-for-robots.html

So … go have some fun and build yourself an actuator!!