Actuators are fundamental to the basic operations of countless machines, vehicles, and devices, being responsible for moving and controlling diverse mechanisms through mechanical means. They do this by converting energy into motion, though the way in which they do this and the exact motion they provide can widely differ based on the design and purpose of a particular actuating element. Whether you are looking to enhance an existing system or are in search of operational solutions for a new project, it is highly advantageous to have an understanding of how these mechanisms function and what options are available. As such, read on as we provide an overview of their functions, common types, and general uses.