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[[File:Actuators.jpg|thumb|right|Actuators]] | |||
[[File:Actuator1.jpg|thumb|right|Actuators]] | |||
'''Actuator''' is something that converts energy into motion. It also can be used to apply a force. An actuator typically is a mechanical device that takes energy — usually energy that is created by air, electricity or liquid — and converts it into some kind of motion. That motion can be in virtually any form, such as blocking, clamping or ejecting.An actuator is the mechanism by which an agent acts upon an environment. The agent can be either an artificial intelligence agent or any other autonomous being (human, other animal, etc.). Actuators typically are used in manufacturing or industrial applications and might be used in devices such as motors, pumps, switches and valves. | |||
==Energy Sources== | |||
Perhaps the most common type of actuator is powered by air and is called a pneumatic cylinder or air cylinder. This type of actuator is an air-tight cylinder, typically made from metal, that uses the stored energy of compressed air to move a piston when the air is released or uncompressed. These actuators are most commonly used in manufacturing and assembly processes. Grippers, which are used in robotics, use actuators that are driven by compressed air to work much like human fingers. | |||
An actuator also can be powered by electricity or hydraulics. Much like there are air cylinders, there also are electric cylinders and hydraulic cylinders in which the cylinder converts electricity or hydraulics into motion. Hydraulic cylinders, which use liquids, are often found in certain types of vehicles. | |||