What is the role of actuators in Cyber Physical Systems?

Actuators serve a crucial role in Cyber Physical Systems by making alterations to the physical world based on inputs or conditions detected by the system. They are devices that convert electrical signals into physical action, enabling a system to influence or manipulate its environment. For example, in a smart home, an actuator can control a smart thermostat to adjust the temperature based on sensor data.

The importance of actuators lies in their ability to execute commands resulting from the decisions made by the system, thereby effecting real-world changes, such as moving machinery, opening or closing valves, or adjusting positions of mechanical components. This functionality is essential for the efficacy of Cyber Physical Systems, which rely on such interactions to meet operational goals effectively.