aktuatory

Aktuatory, known in English as actuators, are devices that convert energy into mechanical motion to produce controlled movement, force, and displacement in machines and systems. They are essential in automation, robotics, and mechatronics, enabling valves, clamps, positioners, and other actuated components to respond to electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic signals.

The most common types are electrical actuators, hydraulic actuators, and pneumatic actuators. Electrical actuators convert electrical energy into rotational or linear motion using motors, solenoids, or lead-screw mechanisms. Hydraulic actuators use pressurized fluid to generate high force in linear motion, suitable for heavy lifting and precise control. Pneumatic actuators employ compressed air for fast actuation with moderate forces. Other technologies include piezoelectric actuators and shape memory alloy actuators for fine positioning and compact designs. Many systems combine actuators with feedback sensors to form closed-loop control.

Control of actuators typically involves open-loop operation, which applies a target signal without direct feedback, or closed-loop operation, which uses sensors such as encoders, potentiometers, or pressure and flow sensors to regulate position, velocity, or torque. Selection depends on required force, speed, stroke, precision, response time, efficiency, and environmental conditions, including temperature and vibration.

Applications are diverse, ranging from industrial automation and robotics to automotive systems, aerospace, medical devices, and consumer electronics. Actuators are often integrated with controllers, drivers, and sensors to create mechatronic subsystems, and safety, reliability, and thermal management considerations are important in design and deployment.