MC 4213 – ROBOTICS
MODULE 5
Sensors and Actuators
Learning Objectives
• Explain the difference between sensors and actuators.
• Identify common robotics sensors.
• Identify common robotics actuators.
• Describe a basic sensor-to-actuator control sequence.
5.1 Sensors
A sensor converts a physical quantity or environmental condition into information a controller can use.
Examples include ultrasonic distance sensors, infrared sensors, cameras, encoders, gyroscopes,
accelerometers, and force sensors.
5.2 Actuators
An actuator converts a control command into physical action. Examples include DC motors, servo
motors, stepper motors, pneumatic cylinders, and hydraulic actuators.
5.3 Example
An ultrasonic sensor detects an obstacle, the controller evaluates the distance, and a motor driver
commands the wheel motors to stop or change direction.
Activity – True or False
1. Sensors allow robots to collect information. _____
2. Motors can function as actuators. _____
3. A controller processes information from sensors. _____
4. An ultrasonic sensor primarily measures electrical voltage. _____
5. Actuators can produce physical movement. _____
6. Cameras can be used as robotic sensors. _____
7. Sensors and actuators perform exactly the same function. _____
Activity – Short Answer
1. What is the main difference between a sensor and an actuator?
2. Give two examples of sensors and two examples of actuators.
3. Describe what could happen if an obstacle sensor stops working.
MODULE 5
Sensors and Actuators
Learning Objectives
• Explain the difference between sensors and actuators.
• Identify common robotics sensors.
• Identify common robotics actuators.
• Describe a basic sensor-to-actuator control sequence.
5.1 Sensors
A sensor converts a physical quantity or environmental condition into information a controller can use.
Examples include ultrasonic distance sensors, infrared sensors, cameras, encoders, gyroscopes,
accelerometers, and force sensors.
5.2 Actuators
An actuator converts a control command into physical action. Examples include DC motors, servo
motors, stepper motors, pneumatic cylinders, and hydraulic actuators.
5.3 Example
An ultrasonic sensor detects an obstacle, the controller evaluates the distance, and a motor driver
commands the wheel motors to stop or change direction.
Activity – True or False
1. Sensors allow robots to collect information. _____
2. Motors can function as actuators. _____
3. A controller processes information from sensors. _____
4. An ultrasonic sensor primarily measures electrical voltage. _____
5. Actuators can produce physical movement. _____
6. Cameras can be used as robotic sensors. _____
7. Sensors and actuators perform exactly the same function. _____
Activity – Short Answer
1. What is the main difference between a sensor and an actuator?
2. Give two examples of sensors and two examples of actuators.
3. Describe what could happen if an obstacle sensor stops working.
