Mechatronics Flashcards
(29 cards)
What is a cam mechanism
Used to turn rotary motion into linear or reciprocating motion. The cam is rotated, either manually or using a motor.
What are linkages
System made up of levers or rods connected by pivots. They are used to change the size of a force or the direction or type of motion.
What is reverse-motion linkage
Type of linkage where the output direction of motion is the reverse of the input direction of motion.
What is parallel-motion linkage
Type of linkage where two or more parts of the linkage move in the same direction but parallel to each other
What is bell-crank linkage
Type of linkage where the direction of motion is converted between horizontal and vertical; the output force can be increased or decreased compared to the input force, depending of the position of fixed pivot.
What is a pulley
Mechanism that uses wheels, an axle and a rope to reduce the effort force needed to lift a load
What is a transducer
An umbrella term used to describe both electrical sensors and actuators. Used to convert one form of energy, or signal, into another
What is a sensor
Electronic componets that detect changes in the physical environment around them
What is an actuators
Decides that converts electrical, electronic or mechanical signals into physical movements. Motors and solenoids
What are microprocessors
Powerful central processing units mainly used in computing applications. They are mainly used in computing applications, such as computer controlled robot systems
What are microcontrollers
Small computers, contained in microchips, that respond to input devices and control output devices.
What is the purpose of a standard motor
To create rotary motion when current flows through it, for example Turing wheels on electric vehicles
What is the purpose of servo motors
To create rotary motion through a precise angle or velocity, for example when moving the cutting tool in a CNC machine
What is the purpose of stepper
To create rotary motion through a series of precise steps, for example when moving digital cameras into specific positions
What are PLCs
Programmable devices used in manufacturing and industrial control systems
How do PLCs work
Continuously monitoring input signals form various devices processing these signals using a user programmed logic, and then generating output signals to control industrial equipment.
What are utitary PLCs
Contain all the different parts and components within a single housing.
What are modular PLCs
They have different parts, modules, that are connected together to form a customisable device.
What is a interface device
Modules that ensure accurate communication takes place between PLCs and input/output
What is the purpose of a valve in fluid power systems?
Controls the direction of the fluid and hence the movement of other components, such as cylinders and actuators
Valves are essential for directing fluid flow within hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
What type of fluid power system is a pump typically used in?
Hydraulic
Pumps are crucial for creating the flow of fluid in hydraulic systems.
What does an actuator do in a fluid power system?
Acts as an output device to the system
Actuators convert fluid energy into mechanical movement.
What is an example of an actuator within a fluid power system?
Cylinder
Cylinders force a piston to move in a certain direction.