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Glite Dictionary
rotary actuator

rotary actuator

7.9
A device that turns to move the read and write head in a hard disk
  • noun
  • /ˈroʊtəri ˈæktʃueɪtər/
  • Specialized
translation icon : actuador rotativo
  • A rotary actuator in a computer drive moves the read/write head to the correct data track.
  • pneumatic rotary actuator

Examples

  • The SM-1700 Series heavy-duty rotary actuators are designed for applications requiring precise control of dampers, registers, valves, or other devices with a 90-degree rotation requirement.

    Academic text (1994)

  • Limited angle torque motors are rotary actuators that are useful for applications that require quick, precise angular positioning (typically less than 170 degrees).

    Academic text (2003)

  • Rotary actuators were first introduced to the United States from Europe in the early 1970s.

    Academic text (2003)

  • The L30 Series is the latest addition to the company's line of rotary actuator solutions.

    Academic text (2003)

  • While the accurate control made possible by rotary actuators helps lower turbidity levels, it is their reliability and low cost of ownership that really matter to most plant managers.

    Academic text (2003)

  • The rotary actuators are pre-threaded with standard mounting holes in the body to provide versatility and ease of mounting.

    Academic text (2005)

  • The engineer installed a rotary actuator to ensure precise movement in the robotic arm.

  • Many automated systems use a rotary actuator to control the positioning of various components.

Synonyms

rotator
vsrotary actuator
1 5.0

A part or device that turns around a central point

is a specific device for controlled rotation that positions read write heads

How Complex

calculating machine
  • Archaic
1 5.9
rotary actuator
  • Specialized
7.9
volvelle
  • Specialized
9.9
dial
63 1.5
wheel
∞ 1.0
disk
  • US
62 1.4

Surface Forms

rotary actuator singular
rotary actuators plural

Morphology

rotary + actuator

The noun phrase is transparently compositional: 'rotary' (rotating) modifies 'actuator' (a device that moves things), so the meaning 'a device that produces rotational motion' is directly derivable from the constituents. This follows common English compounding patterns and is cross-linguistically straightforward, so a B1 learner who knows both words should understand the MWE.

Etymology

The noun rotary actuator comes from the words rotary, meaning 'turning', and actuator, meaning 'a part that makes things move'. Imagine a small arm that turns like a clock hand to move the read/write head across a disk, so the term means a device that 'turns' to 'position' the head over the correct data track.