566 Actuators
566.1 Overview
While sensors allow IoT systems to perceive the physical world, actuators enable them to affect it. Actuators convert electrical signals into physical action - movement, light, sound, or heat. They are the βhandsβ of IoT systems, executing commands based on sensor data and control logic.
This comprehensive guide to actuators is organized into focused chapters for easier learning:
566.2 Chapter Guide
566.2.1 Getting Started
| Chapter | Topics | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Actuators | What are actuators, sensors vs actuators, why drivers are needed, beginner-friendly explanations | 20 min |
| Classifications and Comparison | Actuator types, motor comparison, selection decision trees, application guides | 15 min |
566.2.2 Motor Control
| Chapter | Topics | Time |
|---|---|---|
| DC Motors | PWM speed control, H-bridge drivers, L298N/TB6612, PID control, BLDC basics | 35 min |
| Servo Motors | Pulse width positioning, multi-servo control, robotic arms, pan-tilt mechanisms | 25 min |
| Stepper Motors | Step sequences, 28BYJ-48/NEMA 17, AccelStepper library, microstepping | 25 min |
566.2.3 Switching and Output
| Chapter | Topics | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Relays and Solenoids | Relay control, solenoid valves, SSR, flyback protection, high-voltage safety | 20 min |
| Visual and Audio Actuators | LEDs, NeoPixels, LCD/OLED displays, buzzers, speakers | 25 min |
566.2.4 Control and Safety
| Chapter | Topics | Time |
|---|---|---|
| PWM Control | Interactive PWM calculator, duty cycle formulas, frequency selection, ESP32 configuration | 20 min |
| Safety and Protection | Flyback diodes, watchdog timers, fail-safe design, common pitfalls | 20 min |
566.2.5 Practice and Assessment
| Chapter | Topics | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Hands-On Labs | Wokwi simulations, DC motor lab, servo gripper, multi-actuator projects, PID control | 60 min |
| Assessment and Reference | Interactive quiz, quick reference cards, troubleshooting guide, summary | 30 min |
566.3 Learning Objectives
After completing this series, you will be able to:
- Understand actuator principles and classifications
- Interface common actuators with microcontrollers
- Control motors (DC, stepper, servo) for precise motion
- Implement relays and switches for high-power control
- Drive displays and visual indicators
- Design actuator control systems with feedback
- Implement safety mechanisms for actuator systems
- Select appropriate actuators for specific IoT applications
566.4 Prerequisites
Before diving into actuators, you should be familiar with:
- Electricity Fundamentals - Voltage, current, resistance
- Electronics Fundamentals - Transistors, diodes, switching
- Sensor Fundamentals - Input side of control systems
566.5 Quick Start
New to actuators? Start with Introduction to Actuators for beginner-friendly explanations.
Know the basics? Jump to Motor Control or your specific actuator type.
Need a reference? Check the Assessment and Reference chapter for quick reference cards.
566.6 Whatβs Next?
After completing the actuator series, continue to:
Learn how smartphones can serve as powerful multi-sensor platforms for IoT applications.