ABSTRACT
The drives and actuators which provide the means of conversion from the statement of intention, expressed as an electrical input, to the end effect will be discussed from an applications oriented point of view. The simple definition of a mechatronic system indicates that the objective of such a system is to produce a physical effect such as a change of pressure or a mechanical movement. In mechatronic applications, most sensing and control functions are applied to relatively few control parameters: Mechanical systems Force; position or torque; speed. Electrical systems Voltage; current. Hydraulic systems Volumetric flow rate; pressure. It is thus logical to begin a consideration of drives and actuators by classifying the ways in which motion can be produced against the objectives of the motion, as may be set out in the system specification or statement of requirements.
