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rotator

A rotator is a device or component that provides rotational motion to a load around an axis. In engineering, a rotator may be a standalone rotary actuator or the rotating part of a machine. In some technical contexts, the term is used interchangeably with rotor, though rotor more specifically denotes the rotating member inside electric machines, while rotator can refer to the whole assembly that induces rotation.

Common forms include rotary actuators, which convert electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic energy into controlled angular motion;

Design considerations for rotators include torque and speed requirements, efficiency, and control strategy, as well as

Applications of rotators span manufacturing automation, aerospace and defense, robotics, camera platforms and surveying equipment, and

See also rotor, rotary actuator, rotary table, gimbal, swivel.

rotary
tables
and
turntables
for
precise
platform
rotation
in
machining
and
inspection;
swivels
and
gimbals
for
supporting
a
payload
with
multi-axis
rotation;
and
rotating
joints
in
robotics.
feedback
from
encoders
or
resolvers.
Mechanical
issues
such
as
backlash,
wear,
lubrication,
and
thermal
management
are
important,
along
with
safety
features
and
housing
protection.
The
choice
of
energy
source,
power
density,
and
the
method
of
drive
and
control
can
affect
responsiveness,
accuracy,
and
lifetime.
medical
or
scientific
instruments
where
controlled
rotation
is
needed.
In
many
systems,
rotators
are
integrated
with
sensors
and
control
software
to
achieve
precise
positioning,
orientation,
and
repeatable
motion.