Q1: What are the different types of actuators used in mechatronic systems?
Discuss the
use- cases of different types of actuators with their relative merits and demerits.
[ 2013-14 ]
Answer:
Actuators are critical components in mechatronic systems, responsible for
converting electrical signals into mechanical motion. There are several types of
actuators commonly used in mechatronic systems, each with its own unique
characteristics, applications, advantages, and limitations. Here are some of the
main types:
1. Electric Motors:
• Use Cases: Electric motors are versatile and widely used in various mechatronic systems,
including robotics, automation, and automotive applications. They are used for tasks
such as driving wheels, moving robotic arms, and operating pumps and fans.
• Merits: Electric motors offer precise control over speed and torque, high efficiency,
and relatively low maintenance requirements. They come in various types such as DC
motors, AC motors, stepper motors, and servo motors, each suited for specific
applications.
• Demerits: Electric motors may require complex control systems for precise positioning,
and they can be sensitive to environmental factors such as temperature and moisture.
2. Pneumatic Actuators:
• Use Cases: Pneumatic actuators are commonly used in industrial
automation, such as in pneumatic cylinders for linear motion, pneumatic
grippers for handling objects, and pneumatic valves for controlling fluid
flow.
• Merits: Pneumatic actuators are known for their simplicity, high force-to-
weight ratio, and suitability for high-speed applications. They can also
operate in harsh environments and provide overload protection.
• Demerits: Pneumatic systems require a compressed air source, which can
be costly to install and maintain. They also offer limited precision
compared to electric actuators.
3. Hydraulic Actuators:
• Use Cases: Hydraulic actuators are used in heavy-duty applications where
high force and precise control are required, such as in construction
equipment, aerospace systems, and heavy machinery.
• Merits: Hydraulic actuators provide high force output, precise control over
position and speed, and can operate in extreme conditions, including high
temperatures and high-pressure environments.
• Demerits: Hydraulic systems require a hydraulic fluid supply and can be
complex to design and maintain. They are also prone to leaks and can be
less efficient compared to electric actuators.
Q2: Make a brief comparison between sensors and actuators [2013-14]
Answer:
1. Functions:
• Sensors: Sensors detect changes in their environment and convert physical or chemical
phenomena into electrical signals. They measure various parameters such as
temperature, pressure, position, and light intensity.
• Actuators: Actuators, on the other hand, receive electrical signals and convert them into
mechanical motion, exerting control over physical systems. They cause changes in the
environment based on input signals received from sensors or control systems.
2. Input/Output:
• Sensors: Sensors typically serve as inputs to a mechatronic system, providing feedback
about the system's surroundings or internal state.
• Actuators: Actuators are usually outputs of the system, executing commands based on
input signals received from sensors or control systems.
3. Role in Control Systems:
• Sensors: Sensors provide feedback information to control systems, enabling them to
monitor and adjust the system's behavior in response to changes in the environment or
internal conditions.
• Actuators: Actuators implement the control actions dictated by the control system,
influencing the system's physical state or behavior based on the received signals.
4. Characteristics:
• Sensors: Sensors exhibit properties such as sensitivity, accuracy, resolution, and
response time. They need to be reliable and capable of accurately detecting changes in
the environment.
• Actuators: Actuators are characterized by parameters such as force, speed, precision,
and range of motion. They must be capable of generating the required mechanical
output with the desired level of control and accuracy.
5. Examples:
• Sensors: Examples of sensors include temperature sensors, pressure sensors, proximity
sensors, and cameras.
• Actuators: Actuator examples include electric motors, pneumatic cylinders, hydraulic
pumps, and solenoid valves.
Q3 : Differentiate between sensors and transducers. Mention some typical sensors used for
Temperature, Force/Pressure, Position, Acceleration and Light intensity measurements,
classify them as active/passive and differentiate their output as voltage, current, resistance,
capacitance, etc. [2015-16]
• Answer:
Q4 : List different types of electric, hydraulic and pneumatic actuators. [15-16]
