I can select an actuator based on the motion and performance requirements of a subsystem.
POE Unit 3 • Lesson 3.10
Motors, Servos, and Actuators
Focus question: How do speed, torque, position control, stroke, and force determine the best actuator for a task?
Mission Briefing
Today’s Plan
A focused sequence that advances the rover and VEX ground-support mission.
Opening promptConcept modelGuided practiceInteractive applicationEvidence checkExit ticket
Lesson Targets
What You Will Be Able to Do
Actuator trade study
The selected actuator matches the required motion, force or torque, range, and control precision.
Activity Flow
How the Lesson Moves
Each step builds the control-systems reasoning needed for today’s deliverable.
1. Describe the motion
Identify rotation, limited-angle position, or linear motion.
2. Compare performance
Evaluate speed, torque, force, stroke, and controllability.
3. Select and defend
Choose the actuator and identify any needed transmission or linkage.
Lesson Interactive
Actuator trade study Practice
Apply the lesson concept to an aerospace rover or VEX ground-support scenario. Use the feedback to correct reasoning before documenting the main deliverable.
Subsystem Tasks
- Drive rover wheels continuously through many rotations.
- Rotate a latch precisely between 0° and 90°.
- Push a tray linearly with high force over a short stroke.
Select the Best Actuator
| Task | Actuator |
|---|---|
| Continuous wheel rotation | |
| Precise 0°–90° latch | |
| High-force linear push |
Match actuator motion and control behavior first, then confirm force, torque, speed, and range.
Today’s Work
Main Deliverable
Actuator Selection Trade Study
Create one focused engineering artifact that demonstrates today’s learning.
- Compare at least two actuator options against motion, force/torque, speed, and control needs.
- Select one option and identify the connection or transmission needed to use it.
Exit Ticket
Mission Debrief
State one control-systems or automation idea from today in your own words.
Name one measurement, calculation, trace, or test result that supports your design decision.
Identify one interface, logic, safety, or reliability risk to carry into the next lesson.
Resources
Lesson Resources
Lesson 3.10 PowerPoint
Use the presentation to review the lesson concepts, examples, and activity directions.
Principles of Engineering
Return to the POE course hub for units, resources, certifications, and course information.
Rover Mission + VEX Ground Support System
Use the integrated mission context when connecting logic, sensing, actuation, testing, and design-review evidence.