Actuator Systems

Linear actuators consist of a piston and rod that move within a cylinder. The cylinder has two hydraulic ports; one for extension of the piston and rod and one port for retraction. When hydraulic fluid is directed to the extension port of the actuator, the piston moves to extend the rod out of the cylinder. When hydraulic fluid is directed to the retract port, the piston moves to retract the rod into the cylinder. The cylinder is “pinned” in two places, one fixed point and one translational point. As the piston rod extends and retracts, the translating point moves with it, providing motion control to accomplish tasks such as deploying thrust reversers or opening and closing doors.