Mechatronics System Design

Actuators Selection
Dr. Ashraf Saleem

Actuators Selection
Actuators are the driving force in mechatronic systems and therefore their selection is covered in this class. The concentration is on the selection among different electrical motors motors.

Selection Factors
A number of factors must be taken into consideration when selecting the type of motor to use: Positioning accuracy: In cases where accurate positioning is g y p g required, stepper motors offer an attractive option. In cases where this is not critical it is more convenient to use AC or DC motors. Power and torque requirements: In sizing the motor student motor, should be able to meet both the power requirements as well as the torque requirements. The student has to have an appreciation of any o t an out of balance loads and load related inertias For high torq es inertias. torques and powers, AC induction motors are usually used, provided that accurate positioning is not critical.

Selection Factors
Continuous duty cycle and intermittent duty cycle: In cases of continuous duty cycle no consideration needs to be given for the effect of acceleration, but in intermittent duty cycle applications with frequent starting and stopping, consideration has to be given to the effect of acceleration and deceleration deceleration. Speed range: Where large variations in speed are required by the application, DC motors are ideal as they offer a wide speed range and good speed regulation.

Comparison table
Power/ Power/ torque StepperMotor Stepper Motor Servomotors ACsquirrelcage AC squirrel cage inductionmotor D.C.motor D C motor Low Low High Low/high Positioning Positioning accuracy Good Good Poor Poor Requirementfor Requirement for feedback No No(integrated) Yes Yes