Which device is used to convert electrical, electronic or mechanical signals into physical movement?

An actuator is specifically designed to convert electrical, electronic, or mechanical signals into physical movement or action. In practical applications, actuators receive a control signal from a control system, such as a microcontroller or computer, and then produce physical output movements, commonly in the form of rotation or linear displacement. This functionality is critical in various engineering fields, where precise control of mechanical systems is necessary, such as in robotics, automation, and control systems.

Actuators can be powered by different energy sources, including electricity, hydraulic fluids, or pneumatic pressure, and they are often integrated into systems that require transition from a non-movement state to movement for tasks like opening or closing valves, moving robotic arms, or adjusting the position of components in machinery. This capability makes them a vital component in achieving automated processes and responding to input signals efficiently.