Sensors & Actuators · SHS3 Robotics

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 3.1.3.LI.1. Analyse the operating principles and use of advanced industry-based actuators (valves, hydraulic-based actuators, contactors, relays, etc.)

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Classify advanced industrial actuators into hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical and electromechanical categories and state at least two real-world examples for each category.
Explain the operating principle of a solenoid valve, including the role of the electromagnetic coil and the plunger, and describe one industrial use.
Describe how a hydraulic actuator converts fluid pressure into mechanical force, using Pascal’s principle as the underlying explanation.
Compare relays and contactors, identifying at least three differences in their construction, ratings and typical industrial applications.
Distinguish between stepper motors and servo motors by explaining how each one controls position, and select the more appropriate one for a given industrial task.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Principles of Robotic Systems (Strand 1)
Sub-strand: Sensors & Actuators (1.3)
Content standard: 3.1.3.CS.1 - 3.1.3.CS.1 Demonstrate analytical skills in the selection of final control elements for industrial control solutions. 3.1.3.LO.1 Observe and explain the underlying STEM concepts of functional automated system processes and recommend feasible automation designs for unautomated industrial processes.
Indicator: 3.1.3.LI.1 - Analyse the operating principles and use of advanced industry-based actuators (valves, hydraulic-based actuators, contactors, relays, etc.)
Suggested placement: Semester 2, Week 6 (Week 26 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 157

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Initiating Talk for Learning: Drive discussions of industrial actuators and their use cases. The discussion should include the following category of actuators:
- Hydraulic Actuators:
- Pneumatic actuators:
- Relays
- Stepper and Servo Motors
- Solenoid Valves

In different task groups, learners work on one category per group and share findings with the class for comments.

Assessment (3.1.3.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 1 Recall; Level 2 Skills of conceptual understanding.

Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Real actuators
- Online resources, including pictures
- Videos of actuators in operation
- Online resources and videos
- Internet
- Field trips (where applicable)