Motors vs valves?

Noob here, learning bit by bit...

One question that's been bugging me as I read up on motion platforms is the difference between the control of motors and valves.

Is there a good tutorial or thread on the behaviors of each, or will their traits become more apparent once I'm able to play around with SimTools? (Gonna try to download it this week)

Thanks!

Valves are an older technology that are being replaced by modern electronics driving electric motors that can do the job instead and often better. Imo, Valves are more complicated to work with too and it would likely cost much more money getting equivalent motion using them vs electric motors unless maybe you plan on lifting and moving a lot of weight.

Thanks for the insight.

After a little more research, I've realized that many of the Stewart Platforms actually use electronic actuators, instead of hydraulic or pneumatic. Derp.

So even though valve systems are becoming less popular, will SimTools support a more binary system that utilizes valves? I'm trying to help with some existing 2DOF units that boast 3 pneumatic rams and would like to replace their proprietary motion controllers with Arduino micro controllers...

It up to the sketch you put on your arduino(s) to control the valves themselves. Simtools just sends out position data and your arduino will take it from there. But yes, simtools can drive them too!

Awesome, thanks again!

Ok, so according to the SimTools Quickstart Guide, I'll need a motor controller (in my case, a valve controller) in addition to the Arduino?





Or in my case of pneumatic valves, can the proper sketch have the Arduinos working as all-in-ones, like the boards from Pololu?



This guy appears to have built a pneumatic JoyRider with an Arduino controller and "Pneumatic Valve Amplifier." Is that amplifier essentially the "driver" of a pneumatic system?

The most frustrating part of learning a new technology seems to be finding the correct terminology.

Please post information about the valves you will be using if you expect a response. But I think probably all you will need is an arduino(s) and possibly some relays or opto-couplers.

It,s inpossible to have good position with air (air compresses under pressure this is the problem)valves are slow about 20 commands a second.Fast speed control valves are expensife, With motors you can stay realtime in position and cheaper.Oil isnt old it wil stay but only for things that move a lot off mass Oil got no position problems!
sorry for the bad english regards Ad