Abstract
Actuators and sensors are simple and very sensitive components that create a broad impact and importance on industrial system needs. This chapter proposed various types of actuators and sensor models with their working capabilities and applications. In this chapter, the authors give a thorough review of the sensor and actuators and where these models are implemented in various real contexts of mechanical parts of the industry, electrical and electronic circuits, and other essential areas. Here the authors broadly covered optical, acoustic, chemical, and thermal sensors, as well as different types of actuators such as Pneumatic, hydraulic, motor-based, and electro-mechanical actuators, and examines the several actuator and sensor technologies and the range of applications for each. Also covered is the possible functions and its implementations. Finally, the authors conclude with some real-world examples of how actuators and sensors are used in various applications.
Top2. Overview Of Actuators And Sensors
Actuators and sensors are critical components in a wide range of electronic systems. Actuators are electronic devices that translate an electrical signal into a physical action, such as moving a component, opening and shutting a valve, or turning on a motor. Sensors give input to a system by monitoring physical components including temperature, pressure, light, and sound. Actuators and sensors, when coupled, provide the foundation of *automation systems, allowing machines to adapt to changes in their surroundings. Actuators and sensors are employed in a variety of sectors, such as automotive, robotics, security, and *HVAC. They're also in consumer devices like phones, wearables, and household appliances.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Pneumatic: Pneumatic systems generate and transmit mechanical energy using pressured air or gas. They have a broad range of uses, from running heavy industrial machines to powering hand tools.
HVAC: HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning. It is a system that is used to control the temperature, humidity, and air quality in indoor spaces.
I2C: I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) is a form of communication protocol frequently used for interfacing low-speed peripherals like sensors, touchscreens, and LCDs with integrated circuits (ICs).
Protocols: Sets of rules and regulations known as protocols are used to control communication between two or more systems. They are employed to make sure that data is sent across systems in a secure and reliable manner.
Photodiodes: A semiconductor device known as a photodiode transforms light into electricity. It responds to a variety of wavelengths of light.
Signal amplifier: An instrument used to boost the power of an electrical signal is a signal amplifier, sometimes referred to as a line amplifier.
Haptic: The use of touch for communication is known as haptic (or haptics). In addition to more advanced tactile feedback systems that employ actuators to create vibrations and other sensations.
Automation: Automation is the use of technology to routine human jobs or processes. By removing human work, lowering expenses and mistakes, and enhancing accuracy.
PLC: PLC stands for Programmable Logic Controller. It is a type of computer designed to control industrial machines and processes.
Augmented Reality: Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that superimposes a computer-generated image on a user's view of the real world, thus providing a composite view. AR can be used in many different applications, such as gaming, navigation, and education. Examples include Google Glass, Pokemon Go, and Microsoft HoloLens.
Precision: A measurement's precision serves as a gauge for its accuracy. The value is more precisely expressed the higher the accuracy.
Microcontroller: A microcontroller is a small integrated circuit that controls a single process in an embedded system.
Phototransistor: A phototransistor is a type of transistor that is sensitive to light. It is composed of a semiconductor material that is sensitive to light, and an electrical circuit that amplifies the current generated by the light.
Calibration: Comparing a device's or measuring system's output to a recognised standard is the process of calibration. A device or system's accuracy and precision are ensured by calibration.
IoT (Internet of Things): The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of physical items that are integrated with electronics, software, sensors, and network connectivity in order to gather and share data. Examples of these objects include gadgets, automobiles, and buildings.
Robust: A system's robustness is its capacity to endure or bounce back from challenging or unanticipated external situations. A system's robustness in computing refers to its capacity to deal with unforeseen inputs, environmental changes, and other types of interference.
Gyroscope: A gyroscope is a tool that measures or maintains orientation using the concepts of angular momentum and angular velocity. It consists of a freely rotatable frame with a spinning wheel or disc attached on it.