A Smart Rotary Actuator for Forward-Looking, Radar Based, Adaptive Cruise Control

Common methods for achieving rotary motion and control in mechanical systems are by using stepper motors or linear actuators with conversion linkages to produce the required rotational movement. This paper describes a voice coil rotary actuator with an integrated sensor feedback system. A specific, system designed to provide oscillatory, small angle motion at 5 Hz is described, but the concepts and principles are readily adaptable to many different and varied applications.