Cruise Control Systems: Operation: Actuator

Actuator consists of a motor, safety magnetic clutch, control arm and potentiometer. When actuator receives a signal from the cruise control ECU, it engages safety magnetic clutch and activates motor. Motor causes control arm to move, opening or closing engine throttle valve.

When motor rotates forward, control arm also rotates via safety magnetic clutch, gears and drive shaft. Control arm pulls a cable connected to engine throttle valve and opens the valve accordingly. When motor rotates in a reverse direction, control arm also rotates in a reverse direction and engine throttle valve closes.

Safety magnetic clutch disengages motor from control arm and shuts throttle valve when vehicle speed approaches 10 MPH (15 Km/h) or more above the set speed during cruise control operation, when motor malfunctions or when a circuit problem occurs. Potentiometer detects rotary angle of control arm and constantly sends a signal to cruise control ECU.