An actuator is a complete universal mechanism with or without a motor (electromechanical or mechanical) that is controlled by a control device. This small device can perform a variety of functions in both the production and home environments. Do you know how actuators can be used in your home?
Actuators are quite universal in terms of their properties and applications. Nowadays, you can find any type of them, from heavy duty electric actuators to electric linear actuators.
They can do both perform linear movement and rotation and convert one type of movement into another. This adaptability opens up a plethora of possibilities for use in the home’s setting.
What Can I Use An Actuator For?
The most important characteristics of actuators in terms of versatility are:
- Force;
- Speed of movement;
- Working stroke.
These parameters determine how this mechanism is used in the house or flat. Actuators are an essential component of equipping a smart home.
If the controller is considered the “brain” of a smart home, and the sensors are regarded as its “sensory organs,” then actuators are its “hands,” performing various actions. Based on the data sent by the sensors, they perform specific actions (turning on/off lighting, opening/closing doors, etc.) in response to the controller’s command.
Consider what routine tasks you must complete every day and whether they can be automated. In other words, identify the problem first, and then select the appropriate actuator version to solve it.
What Are The Advantages Of Actuators?
There are numerous reasons to include actuators in your home. Here are five of them:
1. Actuators Have The Potential To Save You A Significant Amount Of Money
The use of actuators in lighting automation allows not only for the most efficient use of energy resources but also significant financial savings. For example, when motion is detected within the range of the sensors, automated lighting will turn on.
You can also specify that the lighting is turned on only in the evenings when it is dark outside.
2. Control Of The Electric Heating And Ventilation System
With actuators integrated with sensors and sensors, you can easily heat or ventilate the entire house before returning home from work.
3. Home Access Control
With actuators, you can control who has access to your home and who does not. For example, opening/closing gates, managing smart locks, security systems, etc.
4. Automation Of Watering Of The Lawn Watering
For many, watering the lawn appears to be a time-consuming task. However, thanks to actuators, this action can also be automated.
5. Making The Most Of Your Living Space
Actuators allow you to use every centimeter in your home. For example, you can automate the workspace by making the table retractable, converting a niche in the wall into a closet with many drawers, etc.
A competent design of a smart home using actuators ensures that the finished system will meet your requirements. Start with small projects if you are new to the world of home automation. Modern wireless technologies enable you to gradually expand the capabilities of your smart home and comfort.
