A servo (short for servomotor) is a type of motor that is designed to provide precise control of angular position, velocity, and acceleration. It typically consists of a motor coupled with a sensor and a controller, making it capable of adjusting its output according to feedback to meet a specific positional requirement.
Key Components of a Servo System:
- Motor: The part that provides rotational motion. It could be an AC or DC motor, often using a gear system for torque amplification.
- Feedback Sensor: Commonly, encoders or potentiometers that measure the position of the motor shaft and send this information to the controller.
- Controller: Uses the feedback from the sensor to adjust the motor’s output to maintain a desired position, speed, or torque.
- Power Supply: Provides the necessary voltage and current to drive the motor.
Types of Servos:
- Standard Servos: These are typically used in small robotic projects or radio-controlled (RC) vehicles. They usually have a limited range of motion (typically 180 degrees).
- Continuous-rotation Servos: These servos can rotate 360 degrees, but instead of positioning, they are used to control speed and direction.
- Linear Servos: These are designed to create linear (straight-line) motion rather than rotary motion, often used in applications requiring precise push/pull actions.
Applications of Servo Motors:
- Robotics: For precise control of robotic arms, legs, or other movements.
- RC Vehicles: For controlling steering, throttle, and other mechanisms.
- Industrial Automation: For precise positioning of equipment, tools, or parts on assembly lines.
- Cameras: To control the zoom or focus functions.
- Aircraft: In autopilot systems to control rudders and flaps.
Servo motors are widely used due to their accuracy and efficiency in applications that require precision. They are essential in systems where positioning or maintaining a specific angle is crucial, such as robotics, automation, and aircraft control systems.
