Actuation refers to the process of activating or controlling a device or system by means of an external force or signal. Actuation systems are used in a variety of aerospace applications to control the movement or position of mechanical components, such as flaps slats, and other control surfaces.
Actuation systems typically involve the use of actuators, which are devices that are used to convert an external force or signal into mechanical movement or displacement. Actuators can be powered by a variety of means, including hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, and mechanical systems.
Examples of aerospace actuation systems include hydraulic actuation systems for aircraft control surfaces, pneumatic actuation systems for landing gear, and electrical actuation systems for satellite attitude control systems. Actuation systems are an important part of many aerospace systems, and they play a critical role in the operation and control of aircraft, spacecraft, and other aerospace vehicles.
Actuation may refer to:
- High Redundancy Actuation (HRA), a new approach to fault tolerant control in the area of mechanical actuation
- Variable valve actuation, any mechanism or method that can alter the shape or timing of a valve lift event within an internal combustion engine