Learn more about the basic six degrees of freedom and how they function. It can be used to activate robotic parts. The force of the contraction is surprisingly strong, approaching 22,000 pounds per square inch. Even a hair-thin nitinol wire six thousandths of an inch thick can lift 11 ounces. Not all robotic actuators are electric.
Hydraulic actuators use oil and pneumatic ones use gas to move.
Plungers, called pistons, move in or out when they are pushed or pulled. Hydraulic systems are used instead of electric ones when there can be danger from sparks. For example, in the painting area of an automobile factory sparks could ignite the fumes. Pneumatic systems are often used in grippers, the part of a robot that picks something up. Gas can be compressed, making the gripper more responsive and less likely to crush what it's picking up.