Actuator control systems activate and regulate the output of actuators, which provide remote or automated work motion. They range from simple start and stop buttons to advanced servo controllers, with travel limits to prevent damage. Servo systems adjust actuator motion based on real-time feedback data.
An actuator control system is any electronic, electrical or electromechanical system used to activate an actuator and control the direction, extent and duration of its output. Actuator control systems can take the form of extremely simple, manually operated start and stop stations, or sophisticated programmable computer systems. More advanced examples include servo systems that produce a wide range of actuator motion in response to the changing demands of the operating environment or process. This type of actuator control system uses an interface arrangement that takes feedback inputs from the process or mechanism and adjusts the actuator accordingly. Most actuator systems, however, will include at least one set of travel limits that prevent the actuator from overcycling and damaging itself or the secondary mechanism.
Actuators are remote or automated providers of work motion. They are used to switch, adjust or move a secondary mechanism, where direct physical intervention by the operator is not possible or undesirable. They are represented by a wide range of different types that use electric and electromagnetic, hydraulic or pneumatic power sources to produce linear or rotary outputs. The one thing they have in common, however, is the actuator control system used to start, stop and regulate the range, speed and duration of the working motion. These systems range in complexity and functionality from simple start and stop buttons to highly advanced servo controllers.
In the case of simple single function mechanisms, the actuator control system will usually consist of a basic start and stop button if the actuator is manually operated or a series of limit switches in the case of automated systems. A good example of this is a level controller on a water tank that uses an actuated fill valve. A manual actuator controller will require an operator to start the valve actuator by pressing the start button. An automated system typically includes a float level switch that closes the actuator start circuit to open the valve when the water level falls below a certain point. Once the tank is full, the float switch will once again start the actuator to close the valve.
Installations that require constant adjustment of machine components to changing operating conditions will, however, require a more flexible actuator control system capable of producing a range of actuator motion on demand. Known as servo systems, these controllers collect real-time positional feedback data from system or process sensors and compare it against a set of ideal parameters. Any differences between the two data blocks will prompt the actuator to correct for the disparity. Both simple and multifunctional actuator control systems will include at least one set of travel limits that prevent damage to the actuator or mechanism resulting from excessive activation.
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