ITPEC FE Subject A April 2025 Question 16
Which of the following is an appropriate explanation of an actuator?
Explanation
Converts energy into motion on a control signal — an actuator is the output end of a control system, turning commands into physical action.
An actuator receives a control signal and uses power from an energy source (electric, hydraulic or pneumatic) to produce rotation, straight-line motion or another movement. Motors, solenoids and hydraulic cylinders are actuators.
Answer (c)
Why not others:
- •(a) — describes an amplifier, which strengthens weak electrical signals
- •(b) — describes a controller in feedback control, which compares the target value with the measured value and outputs a manipulated amount
- •(d) — describes a sensor, which turns physical quantities into electrical signals
Key rule: In a control loop the sensor measures, the controller decides, and the actuator acts on the physical world.
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