Actuator

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Definition

An output device that turns the controller's signal into movement or action, such as a motor, servo or hydraulic cylinder.

Example: The servo moves the arm.

Found in: syllabus.

Short version to memorise (key terms bank)

Output device that moves or acts (motor, hydraulic actuator).

Where you'll use it in the test

Syllabus area: Y11 Mechatronics.

Question types it can appear in

Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.
Matching or table: Match it to its description, example or category.
Fill in the blanks: Choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Short answer: Define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

How to use it

A model sentence

General advice, built from the definition and example above

“An output device that turns the controller's signal into movement or action, such as a motor, servo or hydraulic cylinder.” Then apply it: The servo moves the arm.

In a short answer, give the definition in your own words first, then tie it to the situation in the question. Do not copy the example above unless it fits the scenario.

Command words used with it

General advice

No linked question shows the command word for this term. Across the past short answer questions in this bank the words used most are: Explain, Outline, Describe, Compare, Classify, Analyse. Check the actual word in your question.

Go deeper

Flashcard: Actuator in Programming Mechatronics (Year 11) · study that set
Memorise: Mechatronics: hardware, sensors, actuators, control
Key terms bank entry: Actuator
Notes: Mechatronics: hardware, sensors, actuators, control (Year 11 content (Programming fundamentals, OOP, Mechatronics))
Full term page: every question, note and marking comment for Actuator

Check yourself

Explain “Actuator” in one sentence, give an example, and name a question type that could test it.

Reveal the answer

An output device that turns the controller's signal into movement or action, such as a motor, servo or hydraulic cylinder.

Example: The servo moves the arm.

Could be tested as: Multiple choice, Matching or table, Fill in the blanks, Short answer.

Quick multiple choice

Which is the typical order of data flow in a simple mechatronic (control) system?

Controller, sensor, actuator
Actuator, sensor, controller
Actuator, controller, sensor
Sensor, controller, actuator

Show the answer

Sense, process, act: the sensor input is processed by the controller which drives the actuator.

Source: original (written for this study pack; not a NESA question). Open it in the multiple-choice bank.