Linear Actuators for Medical Devices

Figure 1. Shows an electric linear actuator (Source: http://www.directindustry.com/industrial-manufacturer/linear-actuator-61042-_4.html)

A Linear Actuator is an actuator that creates movement in a straight line. Linear actuators are utilized as a part of machine instruments and modern hardware, in Medical treatment and chemical research. An electric actuator is fueled by an engine that changes over electrical energy into mechanical force. The electrical energy is utilized to impel gear, for example, multi-turn valves. It is a clean actuator that does not consume oil is created by electric actuators Manufacturer Company that deals with actuator production.

There are different ranges of medical applications from the simpler ones to the more complex ones. The complex ones require a lot of speed, control and force like the syringe pumps, while the simpler medical applications can be ranked from the hospital bed adjustment mechanism. There are steps that are required to design the best and correct actuator for one’s medical needs. The steps include basic specification, evaluation options, assessing power needs, the duty life cycle and balancing efficiency with life expectancy.

Basic specification

Figure 2. Shows a typical rod-style pneumatic actuator. (Source: http://www.designworldonline.com/pneumatics-vs-electrics-a-niche-for-each/)

In this first step one ought to have knowledge about the actuator, the power and control needed for the application. Some of the specifications are: The determination of the energy source, if the will energy originates from electric engine, pneumatic, water driven, mechanical, or piezoelectric source. Also, how one will drive the actuator. The power necessities are also some of the requirements needed, it determines how much power or force the application will need to move in the desired direction. The speed and the distance the actuator will have to move is also another specification. Lastly, the duty cycle how the actuator operates and the stroke length and the ecological factors are also in the specification.

Evaluating Options

Figure 3. Shows a Hydraulic Linear actuator (Source: http://www.directindustry.com/industrial-manufacturer/linear-actuator-61042-_4.html)

The evaluation of how linear actuator choices apply to one’s circumstance regarding power, duty cycle and effectiveness. Some of the evaluations are like: By what means will one mount the actuator inside of the gadget? Does the application require manual operation as security precaution? On the off chance that one utilizing an electric engine, what sort and at what voltage? Does the application require feedback regarding speed power or position? Is it accurate to say that one is working with restricted space and need to fit a particular linear actuator foot shaped impression?

Assessing Power Needs

The following step involves performing of an evaluation of the mechanical and electrical power needs. When the power of the application is determined, one can able to figure the measure of electrical force required to produce the mechanical force needed.

What’s the Duty Cycle?

The duty cycle, shows how regularly the linear actuator will work and the measure of time that slips by between strokes, it is a key contributing variable to Heat generation and dispersal in a linear actuator system. The component with the most minimal passable temperature builds up the duty cycle limit for the whole system. The duty life cycle is important because a linear actuator may appear to be suitable through the greater part of the progression but fail at this point.

Figure 4. Shows a Small Pneumatic Actuator Driven Parallel Link Mechanism for Shoulder Prostheses for Daily Living Use (Source: http://www.intechopen.com/books/on-biomimetics/to-design-a-small-pneumatic-actuator-driven-parallel-link-mechanism-for-shoulder-prostheses-for-dail)

Balancing Efficiency with Life Expectancy

Striking a balance between the gadget’s future and the proficiency of the linear actuator is the last step in the selection of the right actuator for the application. Medical application challenges may appear, if both wear out and there is an attempt to change the actuator.