A linear actuator is an actuator that creates motion in a
straight line, as contrasted with circular motion of a conventional
electric motor. Linear actuators are used in machine tools and
industrial machinery, in computer peripherals such as disk drives
and printers, in valves and dampers, and in many other places where
linear motion is required. Hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders
inherently produce linear motion; many other mechanisms are used to
provide a linear motion from a rotating motor?