A smart linear actuator for fuel management system

The design of a novel "smart linear actuator" for fuel management systems is presented. The actuator integrates linear voice coil motor technology with linear position sensing feedback technology to actuate a load across a linear trajectory, in a controlled fashion. Three types of sensor technologies have been developed for this actuator: potentiometric, piezoresistive, and a linear non-contacting technique. Each of these techniques measure the position of the actuator's shaft, along a straight line of actuation. Although developed primarily for automotive fuel efficiency enhancement and emission control, the smart actuator is ideally suited for numerous applications in the commercial, industrial, medical, transportation, and aerospace and defense industries.