Actuators in IoT
Last Updated : 29 Nov, 2022
An IoT device is made up of a Physical object (“thing”) + Controller (“brain”)
+ Sensors + Actuators + Networks (Internet). An actuator is a machine
component or system that moves or controls the mechanism of the system.
Sensors in the device sense the environment, then control signals are
generated for the actuators according to the actions needed to perform.
A servo motor is an example of an actuator. They are linear or rotatory
actuators, can move to a given specified angular or linear position. We can
use servo motors for IoT applications and make the motor rotate to 90
degrees, 180 degrees, etc., as per our need.
The following diagram shows what actuators do, the controller directs the
actuator based on the sensor data to do the work.
Working of IoT devices and use of Actuators
The control system acts upon an environment through the actuator. It
requires a source of energy and a control signal. When it receives a control
signal, it converts the source of energy to a mechanical operation. On this
basis, on which form of energy it uses, it has different types given below.
Types of Actuators :
1. Hydraulic Actuators –
A hydraulic actuator uses hydraulic power to perform a mechanical
operation. They are actuated by a cylinder or fluid motor. The mechanical
motion is converted to rotary, linear, or oscillatory motion, according to the
need of the IoT device. Ex- construction equipment uses hydraulic actuators
because hydraulic actuators can generate a large amount of force.
Advantages :
Hydraulic actuators can produce a large magnitude of force and high
speed.
Used in welding, clamping, etc.
Used for lowering or raising the vehicles in car transport carriers.
Disadvantages :
Hydraulic fluid leaks can cause efficiency loss and issues of cleaning.
It is expensive.
It requires noise reduction equipment, heat exchangers, and high
maintenance systems.
2. Pneumatic Actuators –
A pneumatic actuator uses energy formed by vacuum or compressed air at
high pressure to convert into either linear or rotary motion. Example- Used in
robotics, use sensors that work like human fingers by using compressed air.
Advantages :
They are a low-cost option and are used at extreme temperatures where
using air is a safer option than chemicals.
They need low maintenance, are durable, and have a long operational
life.
It is very quick in starting and stopping the motion.
Disadvantages :
Loss of pressure can make it less efficient.
The air compressor should be running continuously.
Air can be polluted, and it needs maintenance.
3. Electrical Actuators –
An electric actuator uses electrical energy, is usually actuated by a motor
that converts electrical energy into mechanical torque. An example of an
electric actuator is a solenoid based electric bell.
Advantages :
It has many applications in various industries as it can automate industrial
valves.
It produces less noise and is safe to use since there are no fluid leakages.
It can be re-programmed and it provides the highest control precision
positioning.
Disadvantages :
It is expensive.
It depends a lot on environmental conditions.
Other actuators are –
Thermal/Magnetic Actuators –
These are actuated by thermal or mechanical energy. Shape Memory
Alloys (SMAs) or Magnetic Shape‐Memory Alloys (MSMAs) are used by
these actuators. An example of a thermal/magnetic actuator can be a
piezo motor using SMA.
Mechanical Actuators –
A mechanical actuator executes movement by converting rotary motion
into linear motion. It involves pulleys, chains, gears, rails, and other
devices to operate. Example – A crankshaft.
Soft Actuators
Shape Memory Polymers
Light Activated Polymers
With the expanding world of IoT, sensors and actuators will find more
usage in commercial and domestic applications along with the pre-
existing use in industry.
