A servo is a device that converts electrical signals into precise mechanical movement. Its main function is to control the position, speed or torque of a mechanical system based on feedback from sensors. Servos are commonly used in applications requiring precise, repeatable control of motion, such as robotics, CNC machines, and automated manufacturing equipment.
The primary function of a servo is to provide precise control over the movement of mechanical components.
By receiving commands from a controller and feedback from sensors, the servo adjusts its position or speed to achieve the desired output. This capability is crucial in tasks where precise positioning or dynamic motion control is essential for operational efficiency and performance.
A servo typically consists of a motor, a feedback device (such as a potentiometer or encoder), a controller (often a microcontroller or dedicated servo controller), and gears or links that transmit mechanical motion.
The servomotor receives electrical signals from the controller, which determine the desired position or speed. The feedback device continuously monitors the actual position or speed of the motor and sends this information back to the controller. The controller compares the desired and actual values and adjusts motor operation to minimize any error, ensuring precise and responsive control over the mechanical system.
Using a servo instead of a simple motor offers several advantages in applications requiring precise motion control.
Unlike standard motors, servos incorporate feedback mechanisms that allow precise positioning and speed control. This makes them ideal for tasks such as robotic arm movements, camera bench operations and remote controlled vehicles where precise handling and smooth operation are essential. Servos also tend to be more compact and energy efficient compared to other motion control solutions, making them suitable for constrained spaces and battery-powered devices.
In a circuit, a servo performs the specific task of translating electrical signals into mechanical movement based on control inputs.
The circuit typically includes connections for power, control signals from a microcontroller or servo controller, and feedback signals from sensors. The role of the servo in the circuit is to receive these signals, process them through its internal components (motor, feedback device and controller) and produce the corresponding mechanical output as required by the application. This integration of electrical and mechanical functionality in a compact and responsive package makes servos indispensable in various automation and control systems